COMMON CAUSE vs UNION OF INDIA .

The Supreme Court addressed illegal mining activities in Odisha, emphasizing violations of the Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) Act, 1957, and the Forest (Conservation) Act, 1980. The Court mandated that mining operations must have requisite environmental clearances and approvals from the State Pollution Control Board, and that no forest land can be leased without prior approval under the FC Act. The Court directed the Central Empowered Committee to investigate and recommend remedial measures, highlighting the need for accountability in illegal mining practices.