- (1.) The petitioner is an Association of Traders and Businessmen. The petitioner challenges the legality and validity of Rule 65-A of the Rajasthan Minor Mineral Concession Rules, 1986 (in short 'the Rules') and also challenges the policy framed under Rule 65-A of the Rules and which has been published by Notification dated 6-10-1994 (Annex. 3). The petitioner also challenges the auction of the plots for development of minerals, which was to be held on March 27, 1995 (pursuant to the interim order passed by this Court, auction has been held, but has not been finalised).
(2.) Rule 65-A of the Rules, which has been introduced in the Rules on January 23, 1992, reads as follows: "65A. Grant of mining leases by adopting procedure different from the given in the Rules:- Notwithstanding anything contained in these rules, Government may, by notification in Rajasthan Gazette or atleast one daily newspaper having wide circulation in the State as well as one newspaper having wide circulation in the locality near the area in question adopt any method or procedure different from that provided in the rules for leasing out mineral deposit in the interest of mineral development."
(3.) Pursuant to the aforesaid Rule, Policy Notification dated 6-10-1994 (Annex. 3) is issued.;