Miners plead innocence as clarity on demarcation between buffer, eco-sensitive zones inadequate

The M B Shah Commission of enquiry probing into illegal mining on Monday asked Union ministry of environment and forest (MoEF) and the state forest department to submit affidavits regarding their stand on mining in adjacent areas of wildlife sanctuaries and reserve forest area. “All of you should submit an affidavit regarding your interpretation of rules related to mining in adjacent areas of sanctuaries and reserve forest,” Justice M B Shah, the commission chairman told officials of MoEF and state forest department while hearing the matter related to B C Dagara mines.