Hefty fine fixed for release of seized vehicles
Mohinder Verma
JAMMU, Feb 11: Expressing serious concern over failure of the Geology and Mining Department and Police to check illegal mining and transportation of minor minerals from River Tawi without proper permission and challan, a Division Bench of the High Court comprising Chief Justice Pankaj Mithal and Justice Ali Mohammad Magrey has issued directions for mentioning the names of the involved officials of any of the department in the FIRs so that investigation may also be conducted with regard to their role.
Moreover, the Division Bench, while modifying its earlier order, has authorized the Magistrates to release the vehicles seized on the ground of illegal and unauthorized mining and fixed Rs 50,000 as fine for first time violation, Rs 1 lakh for second time violation and confiscation of vehicle till completion of investigation pursuant to the FIR or the proceedings on the complaint.