Authority: High Court of Karnataka at Bengaluru
Order Date: 16 October 2026
Case Overview
- Petition: Writ Petition No.31985 of 2026 (GM‑MM_S) filed by M/s. Vinayaka Rock Crystals (partnership) represented by partner G.M. Praveen, seeking quashing of a notice dated 13 July 2026.
- Respondents: State of Karnataka (Secretary, Dept. of Commerce and Industries), Commissioner & Director, Dept. of Mines and Geology, Senior Geologist, and Karnataka State Remote Sensing Applications Centre.
- Impugned notice: Issued under Rule 44A of the Karnataka Minor Mineral Concession Rules, 1994, demanding a penalty of Rs 44,73,960 as a one‑time settlement for alleged excess extraction of 72,082 metric tonnes of building stone beyond reported quantity and an additional 16,093 metric tonnes from an encroached area.
- Petitioner's contentions: Notice issued without observing natural justice; OTS under Rule 44A is voluntary and at the option of the lease/license holder.
- Government Advocate’s submission: The notice is a show‑cause notice; petitioner’s response will be considered and an appropriate order will be passed after hearing.
Final Outcome
- The Court did not examine the merits of the penalty demand.
- It directed that the respondents are bound by the statements made on their behalf in the proceedings.
- All rights and contentions of both parties, including the petitioner’s claim that OTS is voluntary, are expressly reserved.
- The petition is disposed without any further order.
Topics: Mineral Penalty, Court Order