New Delhi: Jaypee Ventures faced a significant setback in the Supreme Court concerning the illegal sand mining case in Andhra Pradesh. The National Green Tribunal (NGT) had previously imposed a fine of ₹18 crore on the company, which Jaypee Ventures challenged in the Supreme Court.
In a hearing yesterday, the Supreme Court rejected Jaypee Ventures’ plea for exemption from the ₹18 crore fine. The case centers around allegations of illegal sand mining in Andhra Pradesh, with the state government and the Union Ministry of Environment and Forests submitting fresh affidavits and reports.
The Union Ministry of Environment and Forests informed the court that inspections had been conducted in eight districts, and the findings were presented before the bench. The Additional Solicitor General reiterated these points during the hearing.
The Andhra Pradesh government stated that recent floods had washed away much of the illegally mined sand and proposed conducting a scientific inquiry to gather precise data. The state requested three months to complete this study and submit a comprehensive report. Furthermore, the AP government emphasized the crucial role Jaypee Ventures played in the illegal sand mining activities and urged the court not to spare the company.
The government’s counsel also highlighted the suspension of former AP Mineral Development Corporation (APMDC) Managing Director Venkata Reddy, who was implicated in the illegal operations.
The Supreme Court has scheduled the next hearing for August 31, 2024, during which it will review the affidavits submitted by the Andhra Pradesh government and issue further directives on the matter.
