Holding the Bihar Government and a stone-block bidder equally responsible for a nine-year delay in executing a mining lease in Sheikhpura, a Division Bench of the Patna High Court set aside forfeiture of the bidder’s Rs 2.90 crore deposit, ordered its refund with 12% interest, and laid down binding timelines for future mining tenders.
A Division Bench of the Patna High Court has held that Rule 52(5) of the Bihar Minor Mineral Concession Rules, 1972 permits 24 per cent simple interest on a delayed instalment only up to two months, after which the Rule contemplates cancellation, and quashed the Mines and Geology Department’s demands for further interest on three Rajouli stone blocks in Nawadah.
The Karnataka High Court set aside a royalty demand against cement major ACC Limited, holding that the State cannot assess royalty on limestone using a “notional conversion factor” where the company’s actual weighment data is credible and unrebutted, and where a technical body had physically verified the consumption. Bengaluru: The Karnataka High Court has quashed […]
Today(on 9th August), The Kerala High Court emphasized the need for a comprehensive approach to development in light of recent landslides in Wayanad, stressing the importance of assessing the social, economic, and ecological impacts of developmental activities. The Court appointed an Amicus Curiae to offer recommendations on refining policies for environmental conservation and directed the State to prioritize environmental preservation and sustainability. The Court urged urgent action and reevaluation of existing practices.
![[Breaking]‘Ignores Macro-Economic Impact’: Centre Seeks Review of Supreme Court’s 8:1 Ruling Upholding Power of States to Tax Minerals](https://i0.wp.com/lawchakra.in/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Mineral-Royalty-Case.jpg?resize=447%2C367&ssl=1)
Today, 9th May, The Supreme Court paused mining activities in the Aravalli Hills of Rajasthan, Haryana, Gujarat, and Delhi to protect the fragile ecosystem and prevent further degradation. Legal mining operations with valid permits are allowed. The court has directed the formation of a committee to establish a consistent definition of the Aravalli hills and ranges within two months.
