M.Katju, Onkareshwar Bhatt, JJ. - (1.) Heard learned counsel for the parties.
(2.) The petitioners have challenged the publication notice dated 25.5.1993 and has prayed for a mandamus directing respondents not to interfere in his excavation and transportation of silica sand.
(3.) The petitioners deal with silica sand, which is a major mineral, as contrasted to ordinary sand, which is a minor mineral. A major mineral is governed by the Mineral Concession Rules. 1960, while a minor mineral is governed by the U. P. Minor Minerals (Concession) Rules, 1963, both these rules being made under the Mines and Minerals (Regulation and Development) Act, 1957.;