Judgement

PATTANAIK, C.J.I. : - Leave granted.

2. This appeal by grant of special leave is directed against the decision of the Orissa High Court dated 18th of May, 2001, dismissing the appellants writ petition which had been filed against the recommendation of the State of Orissa dated 28-1-1999, seeking approval of the Government of India under Section 5(1) of the Mines and Minerals (Regulation and Development) Act, 1957 (hereinafter referred to as the Act), in respect of 84.881 Hectares of land, bearing chromite in Village Kalarangiata, Kaliapani in Sukinda Tahsil of Jaipur District, Orissa, in favour of M/s. Nava Bharat Ferro Alloys Limited. The writ petition which had been filed in Delhi High Court and since transferred to this Court is directed against the order of approval of the Government of India dated 9-7-2001, in respect of the selfsame area on the basis of the recommendation made by the State Government.

3. A large chunk of land about 50 Sq. Meters had been granted for mining operation in favour of TISCO in the year 1952. A lease deed had been executed in respect of 1813 Hectares for chromite extraction in favour of TISCO for a period of 20 years on 12-1-1953. In 1973, th