Supreme Court Opens Door for Mining Lease on Raiyat Land

In a significant judgment, the Supreme Court of India has provided clarity on the use of Raiyat land for mining purposes and the interpretation of a State Government's letter of approval in a mining lease dispute. Justices Sanjiv Khanna and Aravind Kumar delivered the verdict on September 12, 2023.

The case revolved around the classification of land as 'Raiyat' and its subsequent allocation for mining activities, raising questions about land usage and ownership.

In their judgment, the bench addressed the pivotal issue of whether the State Government's letter of approval could be considered a "Letter of Intent." They examined the legal definitions and referred to relevant cases. Rejecting the contention that the letter constituted a Letter of Intent, the bench emphasized that the letter was recommendatory in nature and did not signify a commitment to enter into a future contract. The judgment clarified that this situation did not fall under clause (c) of Section 10-A of the Act [Para 15-16].

"Interpretation of State Government's letter of approval – Whether the letter constitutes a Letter of Intent – Examination of legal definitions and relevant cases – Rejecting the contention that the letter is a Letter of Intent due to the lack of previous Central Government approval – Clarification that the letter was recommendatory and not a commitment to enter into a future contract – Not covered by clause (c) of Section 10-A of the Act," the Court observed.

The Court also delved into the restrictions imposed on Raiyat land use for mining, citing provisions of the West Bengal Land Reforms Act, 1955. The judgment highlighted the contradiction between classifying land as 'Dungri' and granting it as Raiyat land for cultivation.

"Legal issues surrounding the consent letters of landowners (Raiyats) and changes in ownership – Uncertainty regarding the Respondent's eligibility for Rule 61 benefits – Non-impleadment of WBMDTCL – The remand order is not appropriate at this stage," the Court noted.

The Court also addressed the ownership dispute, recognizing the appellants' claim to 20.87 acres of the land in question. The judgment cleared the way for granting a mining lease for this portion to Respondent No. 1 while rejecting the remainder of the claim.

 Date of Decision: September 12, 2023

 STATE OF WEST BENGAL AND ANOTHER vs M/S. CHIRANJILAL (MINERAL) INDUSTRIES 

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