The Supreme Court of India, in the matter of Samaj Parivartana Samudaya & Ors. vs. State of Karnataka & Ors., dealt with multiple applications concerning illegal mining in Karnataka. The court reviewed applications related to excess iron ore extraction, disputed claims, and the auctioning of mines under various conditions. The judgment primarily focused on clarifying the status of pending applications and allowed withdrawals or marked several as infructuous due to subsequent developments. The court also provided directions on specific aspects like the refund of guarantee money and permission for fresh applications if necessary.

1. Introduction and Background

The case revolves around illegal mining activities in Karnataka, brought to light by the NGO Samaj Parivartana Samudaya. The court has previously issued multiple orders regarding the suspension of mining activities and rehabilitation plans.

2. Summary of Applications

The judgment addresses several applications, many of which became redundant due to ongoing developments. Applications for excess iron ore sold, the merger of mines for auction, and the implementation of Reclamation and Rehabilitation (R&R) Plans were deliberated.

3. Applications Dismissed as Infructuous

The court dismissed several applications as infructuous or in default, as the issues raised had already been resolved or become irrelevant due to earlier orders or new developments.

4. Refund of Guarantee Money

One of the significant decisions concerned the refund of guarantee money deposited by lessees. The court emphasized that refunds would depend on the complete implementation of the R&R Plans, with further reviews for cases where partial refunds were granted.

5. Directions on Future Proceedings

The court allowed applicants to submit additional documents or file fresh applications where required. It also directed the Central Empowered Committee (CEC) and the Monitoring Committee to continue oversight and submit updated reports.

6. Conclusion

The Supreme Court’s ruling clarified pending matters, ensured compliance with previous orders, and provided directions for handling unresolved issues, thereby bringing closer resolution to the long-standing illegal mining case.