Supreme Court's Displeasure Over Odisha's Dues Recovery Delay

The Supreme Court voiced its dissatisfaction with the Odisha government's approach to recovering dues from mining lessees who violated norms. Justices Dipankar Datta and Augustine George Masih stressed the state's responsibility to protect government revenue.

Advocate Prashant Bhushan, representing the petitioner, highlighted Odisha's failure to recover substantial amounts despite multiple court directives. The court previously ruled in August 2017 to reclaim dues by December 31, 2017.

Odisha's advocate general requested more time for strategizing with state officials. The Supreme Court granted an extension until December 1, seeking a detailed status report on recovery efforts.