In Karnataka, the Central Bureau of Investigation CBI conducted raids on the house of close associates of mining baron Janardhan Reddy in Hospet near Bellary today. Karapudi Mahesh and Swastik Nagaraj, who are regarded as associates of Reddy brothers, were searched by a CBI team early this morning. Our Bellary Correspondent adds that Lokayuktha report on illegal mining had pointed out that these associates helped Reddy brothers in collecting money through nefarious means.

Meanwhile the Environment Impact study team stationed in Bellary visited Tumti reserve forest area in Bellary district. The team is directed to submit its report on impact of mining on environment in Bellary district within three months. In another development, the close associate of Reddy brothers, Sriramulu is on fast since last two days demanding the Central Government to allow supply of raw materials to the sponge iron ore manufacturing units.