A court in Bengaluru has exonerated Goa’s Tourism Minister, Rohan Khaunte, in a long-standing case concerning unauthorized iron ore extraction and transport. The ruling marks the end of a high-profile legal battle that had drawn significant attention over the years.

The allegations date back to the early 2010s when rampant illegal mining in Goa was exposed. A 2012 government-backed probe led by retired judge M.B. Shah revealed that nearly all 90 iron ore mines in the state were functioning without valid environmental approvals. The report estimated the financial loss to Goa at over $6 billion, prompting a blanket suspension of mining activities from September that year.

In 2015, the Goa government extended 88 mining leases, a move later contested in court. Critics claimed the renewals bypassed mandatory auction procedures. Eventually, in 2018, the Supreme Court annulled these lease extensions, insisting on a more transparent allocation process.

Khaunte, formerly overseeing the Mines and Geology department, was accused of enabling illicit mining operations and unapproved ore transportation. The prosecution claimed his negligence caused severe financial and ecological harm. However, the defense countered that he followed regulatory protocols and argued the charges were politically driven.

The court, after reviewing evidence and witness testimonies, ruled that the accusations lacked substantial proof. It acknowledged governance failures within the sector but found no direct culpability on Khaunte’s part.