Mining activity in itself raises many concerns surrounding the interest of different

shareholders involved. The new Mineral policy of the government has sought to ease
the norms in mining activity with the larger aim of maximizing production of minerals
realizing the full potential of the sector. This in turn obviously will require greater
focus to be given to the concern of those affected adversely by the mining activity in
particular area. The line between legal and illegal mining has been narrowed to a
great extent in recent times therefore the matter involving the rights of the Tribal
population has gained maximum strength. The Indian Constitution as well as other
legislations seeking to protect rights of the tribes has been the instrument of
protection and safeguard for these tribes. In the State of Madhya Pradesh there are
reserves of Bauxide in the Balaghat District for which mining lease was given to MS
Zilus Mining Corporation in 2017.Its been 3 years but they have not been able to start
the mining activity because of the resentment of the local people. The tribes of
Balaghat named Kulhan have been residing in those area since more than a century
and essentially earn their livelihood from the land which is being taken away. Though
compensation has been provided to them but they are not willing to dispense with
their land. Further the mining lease also includes certain area which are religiously
very significant for the Kulhans. As they claim that their Godess Earth has appeared
in that particular area and it will bring great misfortune if their abode is disturbed.
Zilus has already invested a lot but has not been able to start commercial
exploitation yet. They contend that they have followed the due procedure of law after
which only they have been granted lease therefore the tribes should not hinder
mining operation.

Formulate the issues and argue for and against.