TV
With mystery still shrouding the sinking of Mongolian Vessel MV Black Rose, a CBI prove has been demanded into the matter. An RTI activist, Pradeep Kumar Pradhan has demanded a CBI investigation into the mysterious sinking of the ship.
As per reports, the ship had sunk near the Paradip Port of Odisha on September 9, 2009. The ship was allegedly carrying about 24,000 metric tonnes of iron ore. With no one claiming the cargo on the ship, it led to speculations that the iron ore worth crores of rupees was being smuggled abroad through the ship.
“Two petitions were filed in the High Court of Orissa requesting to allow CBI probe into the matter citing that it is an international crime. CBI had also agreed to carry out the investigation if the High Court permits,” said Pradeep Kumar Pradhan.
He further added, “Two renowned companies of Odisha, AB mines and Rektor mines had smuggled about 24K metric tonnes of iron ore to foreign lands. The vessel that was carrying this cargo did not possess any valid paperwork hinting towards smuggling and foul play. It is not possible for the state government to investigate this matter. Hence, CBI is the only entity capable of carrying out the investigation.”
The RTI activist also stated, “He has written a letter to the current Chief Minister of Odisha requesting to hand over the documents of the vessel for a proper investigation."
According to reports, Ministry Of Ports, Shipping and Waterways, and Pradip Port Trust have submitted agreement letters for CBI investigation.
According to Pradeep Pradhan, several BJD leaders are involved in the case and the previous government had suppressed the matter. He also stated that a new government led by the BJP is in power and the party had earlier demanded a CBI probe into the matter as well.
Meanwhile, no comments were received from the BJD in this regard.
