What is the coal scam in India?

Answer 1

The coal scam, also known as the Coalgate scandal, refers to a significant controversy in India involving the allocation of coal mining licenses and blocks between 2004 and 2012. Allegations emerged that the government had irregularly allocated coal blocks to private companies and favored certain firms without proper bidding processes, leading to substantial losses to the exchequer. The Supreme Court of India intervened, declaring many allocations illegal and ordering a reallocation of coal blocks. The scandal raised serious questions about corruption and governance within the Indian political system.