Karnataka set to generate over Rs 10.8k crore from mining sector
Bengaluru: The Siddaramaiah-led Karnataka government on Friday approved two key measures that are expected to fetch the exchequer at least Rs 10,818 crore from the mining sector.
The Cabinet approved the Karnataka (Mineral Rights and Mineral Bearing Land) Tax Bill, which will enable the government to levy taxes, with retrospective effect, on mineral rights and owners of mineral-bearing lands. This move is estimated to fetch Rs 4,713 crore, as reported by the Deccan Herald.
Law and Parliamentary Affairs Minister H.K. Patil, while briefing the media, clarified that the tax would be in addition to the royalty already levied on mined minerals.
"At present, only the miner pays the royalty, but the landowner also has to pay the tax now. For one tonne of iron ore mined from land, a tax of Rs 100 will be levied on the owner of the land," Patil was quoted as saying by the publication, noting that the rate will vary depending on the type of mineral.
When asked whether the move was aimed at generating additional income for the state, Patil mentioned that they were collecting money that was due to the government.
The Cabinet's decision follows a recent Supreme Court ruling affirming that states have the legislative right to impose taxes on minerals.
The proposed tax rate will range from Rs 20 to Rs 100 per tonne for different minerals across all mine categories, the report added.
In another decision, the government has decided to give a one-time settlement (OTS) option for mining violators, particularly those who mined beyond their licensed areas. The state is expecting to collect penalties amounting to over Rs 6,105 crore under this.
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Punishment for those disrupting assembly proceedings, warns Speaker UT Khader
Belagavi: Speaker U.T. Khader on Friday warned that members who disrupt Assembly proceedings by talking in their seats during debates will be made to sit in the House for an entire day as a disciplinary measure.
The warning came after the Question Hour, when Deputy Leader of the Opposition Arvind Bellad was permitted to initiate a discussion on the development of North Karnataka.
At this point, expelled BJP MLA Basanagouda Patil Yatnal objected, stating that he had been seeking a debate for the past three days but had not been given an opportunity.
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Responding to the objection, Speaker Khader said Bellad had already been granted permission and assured Yatnal that he would be allowed to speak at the next opportunity. He noted that even as a serious discussion was underway, several MLAs were speaking among themselves with their microphones on, disrupting the proceedings.
Expressing displeasure over the conduct of members, Khader likened the situation to football, where players receive red, yellow, or white cards for violations. Similarly, he said, the Assembly issues warning cards to members who disturb the House. If they fail to correct themselves despite repeated warnings, they would be required to remain seated in the Assembly hall for a full day as punishment, he stated.
