Jharkhand High Court orders CBI inquiry into illegal mining in Sahibganj

Ranchi, August 18: The Jharkhand High Court has issued an order for a Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) inquiry into an alleged case of ‘illegal mining’ at Nimbu Pahad in the Jirwari police station region of Sahibganj. The decision was made by a single bench presided over by Justice Sanjay Kumar Dwivedi following the consideration of a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) submitted by Vijay Hansda.

Hansda’s PIL sought a CBI investigation into the reported illegal mining taking place at the aforementioned location. The petitioner detailed that his efforts to halt the unlawful mining activities led to threats from Pankaj Mishra, the representative of Chief Minister Hemant Soren.

Although Hansda had previously filed a petition to withdraw the PIL, the court rejected his application for withdrawal. Represented by advocate Sudhanshu Shekhar, Hansda argued his case before the court.

Vijay Hansda plays a pivotal role as a witness in the Enforcement Directorate’s ongoing investigation into money laundering associated with illegal mining. He informed the agency that when he attempted to lodge an FIR against Pankaj Mishra for his involvement in the illicit mining at Nimbu Pahad, local law enforcement declined to register the case.

Subsequently, on July 7, Vijay Hansda filed a complaint with the court, which subsequently instructed Sahibganj police to initiate the FIR. During the progression of the case, it emerged that Hansda had initially requested the police not to proceed with the case, citing its falsehood. However, he later retracted his statement.

The Jharkhand High Court’s directive to launch a CBI inquiry underscores the commitment to impartially investigating alleged illegal mining activities, contributing to the pursuit of justice and accountability in the region.