The order was passed in a Public Interest Litigation Writ Petition filed by one Shankar Raghunath Jog. Union Ministry of Environment and Forest (MoEF) was the second respondent in the matter. The petitioner in his petition has pointed out that environmental clearance granted for expansion of Saniem Sacorda Iron Ore Mine on November 25, 2005 expired on November 25, 2010. However, mining operations continued to be carried out causing environmental damage.
The Court had observed that the petitioner later wrote letters to Secretary Science Technology and Environment, to stop the illegal work. Copies of the letter were also sent to the Directorate of Mines and Member Secretary of Goa State Pollution Control Board. The Court pointed out that the mine owned by Talaulicar & Sons Pvt. Ltd is carrying out mining operations without a subsisting environment clearance as contemplated under provisions of law and has directed Saniem Iron Ore Mines, Margao to apply for renewal of environmental clearances within three months of the order failing which its mining operation will be suspended.