HC notices to OMC over CBI’s appeal for enhancing punishment

The Telangana High Court, on Wednesday, issued notices to the Obulapuram Mining Company (OMC), which was made one of the accused by the CBI in the illegal mining case and convicted by the special court, in an appeal petition seeking enhancement of punishment to the company.

Justice K. Lakshman of the HC passed the order issuing notices to OMC after hearing the CBI’s plea filed under Section 418 (2) (b) of the BNSS. The officials contended that the punishment awarded by the trial court was grossly inadequate. The punishment of imposing one lakh rupees fine on OMC did not match the gravity of the crime established against the company, the investigating agency said in the plea.

The CBI wanted that the punishment should act as a deterrent for the companies indulging in fraudulent practices. Three months ago, the CBI Special Court held the company guilty under Sections 120-B and 420 of the Indian Penal Code, imposing a fine of one lakh rupees. The judge posted the matter to September 17 for next hearing.