Agencies
Bengaluru
Tourism Minister Rohan Khaunte has been acquitted by a Bengaluru court in a case related to illegal iron ore mining and transportation. The verdict brings closure to a high-profile case that has been under scrutiny for several years.
The case traces back to the early 2010s when allegations of widespread illegal mining activities emerged in Goa.
According to the prosecution, a logistics company of which Khaunte and his brother were directors, purchased iron ore from a mineral firm and transported it to Belekeri port allegedly without obtaining the permit from the Directorate of mines and geology and Forest Department permit and sold it causing huge loss to the government exchequer and committed breach of trust.
The prosecution alleged that he wilfully overlooked regulatory norms, leading to significant revenue losses for the state and environmental degradation.
The trial, held in Bengaluru due to jurisdictional considerations, examined extensive evidence and testimonies over several months. The defence argued that Khaunte had adhered to all requisite procedures and that the allegations were politically motivated.
In its verdict, the court stated that the prosecution failed to provide conclusive evidence linking Khaunte directly to the illegal activities. The judge noted that while there were systemic lapses in the mining sector during the period in question, attributing these solely to the minister without concrete proof was untenable.
