CPI(M) seeks CBI probe into illegal mining in Karnataka

The CPI(M) today demanded a CBI probe into the illegal mining activities and export of iron ore from Karnataka and asked the Centre to nationalise all such mines there and stop exports pending a review of the policy.

The party Politburo also sought immediate resignation of the two Ministers, Janardhan and Karunakara Reddy and termed as "shocking and unacceptable" the statement by Chief Minister BS Yeddyurappa that the Reddy brothers of Bellary are not involved in any illegal mining.

Maintaining that Yedyurappa had further said there was no need for the two ministers to step down, the CPI(M) Politburo said the Chief Minister was "refusing to acknowledge the illegal mining activities of these ministers".

"The two ministers who are directly involved in the mining affairs should step down immediately," it said in a statement here.

"In cases where illegal mining activities are established, those mines should be nationalised. The central government should stop the export of iron ore till a review is conducted of the present mining and minerals policy," the party said.