Supreme Court Upholds Rejection of Orissa Minerals’ Lease Renewals for Kolha-Roida, Thakurani, and Dalki Mines
Updated: June 04, 2025 11:51
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The Supreme Court of India has upheld the Odisha government’s decision to reject the renewal applications for the Kolha-Roida, Thakurani, and Dalki mining leases, citing long-standing operational and financial concerns. The ruling marks a significant development in the state’s mineral sector, reinforcing regulatory oversight on non-operational mining entities.
Key Highlights of the Supreme Court’s Decision:
Kolha-Roida Lease Rejection – The court ruled against the renewal of the Kolha-Roida mining lease, noting that Bharat Process & Mechanical Engineers Ltd. (BPMEL), the leaseholder, has been non-operational for nearly three decades and is undergoing winding-up proceedings.
Thakurani & Dalki Lease Applications Denied – The court also dismissed review petitions filed by Odisha Mineral Development Company (OMDC) and 3A Capitals, affirming that the mining entities lacked financial viability to continue operations.
Regulatory Oversight Strengthened – The ruling reinforces Odisha’s mining regulations, ensuring that defunct companies do not retain mineral rights without active operations.
Outlook on Odisha’s Mining Sector
The Supreme Court’s decision signals stricter enforcement of mining regulations, potentially paving the way for new lease allocations to financially stable entities. The ruling also underscores the importance of operational sustainability in India’s mineral sector, ensuring that inactive companies do not hinder resource utilization.