Bengal Coal Smuggling Case: CBI Trial Commences in Asansol
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Synopsis
The trial for a significant coal smuggling case in West Bengal has begun at a CBI court in Asansol. The investigation involves multiple individuals and entities accused of stealing coal, leading to substantial government revenue losses. The case remains ongoing, with future hearings scheduled.
Key Takeaways
- The trial for a major coal smuggling scandal has commenced in West Bengal.
- Key accused include officials from Coal India Limited and other related entities.
- Vinay Mishra, a prime suspect, is currently evading arrest.
- The theft involved approximately 36 lakh metric tonnes of coal.
- The estimated financial impact of the smuggling is around Rs 1,340 crore.
Kolkata, Jan 21 (NationPress) The trial proceedings for the multi-crore coal smuggling case in West Bengal commenced on Tuesday afternoon at a special Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) court located in Asansol, within the West Burdwan district.
The proceedings began with the testimony of two senior officials from Coal India Limited (CIL).
A total of 12 officials from Eastern Coalfield Limited, a subsidiary of CIL, have been accused in this case, with the CIL granting permission to initiate the trial against nine of them.
In addition to the CBI, the Enforcement Directorate (ED), which operates under the Union Ministry of Finance, is also investigating the coal smuggling allegations.
The next hearing is scheduled for February 21 in the same court.
The CBI's charge sheet names 50 individuals and entities, but the trial has commenced against only 49 as a key suspect, former youth leader of Trinamool Congress Vinay Mishra, is currently on the run and is believed to be hiding in the Vanuatu Islands, where he has acquired citizenship.
His brother, Vikash Mishra, is also a major suspect in this case.
The charge sheet states that the accused were involved in the theft and smuggling of 36 lakh metric tonnes of coal, leading to a staggering government revenue loss estimated at Rs 1,340 crore.
The alleged theft and smuggling activities occurred between 2015 and 2020.
The CBI assumed control of the investigation in 2020. Moreover, CIL and several officials from the Central Industrial Security Force (CISF), responsible for securing state-operated coal mines, are also under scrutiny.
Arup Majhi, also known as Lala, who is currently out on bail, is another significant accused in this case.
