Sambalpur: A team of the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) fron Delhi conducted raids at several locations in Sambalpur in connection with the Talabira coal mine corruption case.
The investigation revolves around allegations of excess coal extraction beyond the approved limit at the Talabira-I coal mine in Khinda area in the district.
As per information, altogether 19 individuals are set to be questioned by the central agency at the Khinda Panchayat offic
e, including those linked to the mine’s operations and local officials suspected of having knowledge of the irregularities.
The Talabira-I coal block was originally allocated in 1994 to Indal, which later became Hindalco Industries. Allegations of corruption and over-extraction have surrounded the mine for years, with a case registered earlier but subsequently closed.
However, fresh complaints from local residents prompted the CBI to reopen the investigation in 2014, citing concerns of financial loss to the exchequer and environmental damage caused by unchecked mining activities.
The latest raids mark a renewed push to uncover the truth behind the allegations and ensure accountability. The CBI is expected to scrutinise operational records, production data and the role of officials and company representatives in permitting or overlooking irregularities.