ORDER

1. This appeal is against 5-12-2000.

2. Briefly stated, the facts are as folIows:

The lands were acquired by the Government for instalIation of a brick kiln for making the Bhakra Canal. The purpose for which the land was acquired was completed. The Government had framed Standing Order 28. The relevant portion of which reads as under:

"When agricultural or pastoral land has been permanently acquired for public purposes by any department of the Government and is no longer required for such purposes, the disposal of it shalI be guided by the general consideration mentioned in paragraphs 493-95 of the Land Administration Manual which are reproduced below:

Paragraph 493 Disposal of land no longer required, where land in the permanent occupation of any departments of the Punjab Government is no longer required, it should be handed over to the Deputy Commissioner of the district,. who becomes responsible for the disposal of it under the orders of the Commissioner.

It may not, however, be permanently alienated without the previous sanction of the Government. There is no legal bar to its being put up to auction. But as a malter of grace, the Government is usualIy willing to restore agr