Question : VIOLATION OF TERMS AND CONDITIONS OF MINES LEASE

(a) the nature and number of complaints received during each of the last three years regarding violation of terms and conditions of the licences by the owners/developers of mines leading to mining disasters including loss of human lives;

(b) whether the Government proposes to amend the law and provide for stringent conditions with heavy punishable provisions to check such mining operations, and

(c) if so, the steps taken to effectively implement the provisions of licences issued and court orders to check mining disasters, ensure safety and welfare of mine workers and to address safety and environmental issues?

THE MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF MINES (DR.T. SUBBARAMMI REDDY)

(a)&(b) Violations of terms and conditions of the licences by the owners/developers of the mines are looked after by respective State Governments. Ministry of Mines administers the Mines and Minerals (Development & Regulation)(MMDR)Act, 1957 for development and regulation of minerals and mines in the country. As regards safety condtions in mining, as per information made available by Ministryof Labour & Employment the owner, agent and mangaer of each mine is required to comply with provisions of Mines Act, which is overseen by the officers of Directorate General of Mines Safety, and in case of non compliance, action as per law is taken aginst the mine`s management.

(c) Provisions of licences issued are implemented by the respective State Governments whereas the Directorate General of Mines Safety under the Ministry of Labour ensures safety and welfare of mine workers. Indian Bureau of Mines, a subordinate office under the administrative control of Ministry of Mines carry out regular inspection of mines which includes monitoring of environmental issues.