In Brief
The Supreme Court addressed multiple interlocutory applications under the MMDR Act, 1957 by mining lessees or their representatives seeking to sell undisposed mineral stock and obtain compensation for excess production in violation of environmental clearances. The Court allowed removal and sale of already-mined minerals lying at leasehold sites, with sale proceeds deposited directly with the State Government towards compensation. Critically, the Court appointed an independent supervisory committee to prevent misuse and unauthorized mining activities. For lessees seeking to resume operations, the Court held that statutory clearances (environmental and forest) remain mandatory prerequisites regardless of compensation payment.",
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