Standard Post with Image

Naveen Jindal's JSPL to challenge decision in court

JSPL, promoted by Congress MP Naveen Jindal, has said that it will mount a legal challenge against the Government’s decision to de-allocate its blocks. The Coal Ministry has decided to de-allocate two of JSPL’s blocks: Ramchandi (for a coal to liquid project) and Gare Palma IV/6 (in a joint venture with Nalwa Sponge Iron). The review panel has recommended de-allocation of both blocks. However, a decision on Gare Palma, in Chhattisgarh, has been put on hold as the matter is being heard the Delhi High Court.

A JSPL spokesperson said the company had filed an application for a prospecting licence more than three years ago for the Ramchandi block in Odisha. But the State has not granted the licence in spite of a rigorous follow-up, he said.

Moreover, the Ministry of Coal took 18 months to take a decision on JSPL’s request to redraw the boundary of the coal block as a State highway, with habitation on both sides, passed through the block. As of 31.12.2013, JSPL had invested INR 77.89 crore in the coal-to-liquid project, the spokesperson added.

Source-On Request