(1.) The instant batch of appeals raises a common question of law and arguments have also addressed on that footing Consequently these appeals are being disposed of by this common Judgment.
(2.) An Ordinance under the name of the Assam Forest Regulation (Amendment) Act, 1994 (The Assam Ordinance No. XI of 1994) was promulgated by the Governor of Assam to amend the Assam Forest Regulations, 1891 (for short 'Regulation) and the same was published on 23/11/1994 and it came into force immediately from the date of publication. The said ordinance redefined the definition of 'Timber' as originally envisaged under Sub-clause 3 of Section 3 of the Regulation.
(3.) The definition of 'Timber' was defined under the Regulation prior to amendment as under :