ORDER :

1. In this petition, the petitioner inter-alia has assailed the validity of the order dated 08.07.2022 passed by the Director, Department of Mines and Geology by which, the representation submitted by the petitioner seeking extension of the period of quarry lease has been rejected.

2. Facts giving rise to filing of this petition briefly stated are that the petitioner was granted a quarry lease on 10.08.2017 to extract sand for a period of five years. The period of quarry lease of the petitioner is valid up to 09.08.2022. It is the case of the petitioner that on account of a notice dated 27.10.2017 issued by the Deputy Director, Department of Mines and Geology, the petitioner could not carry out quarrying operations.

3. The petitioner, therefore, submitted a representation to the Secretary, Commerce and Industries Department, seeking extension of the period of quarry lease. The aforesaid representation has been rejected by the impugned order dated 08.07.2022. In the aforesaid factual background, this writ petition has been filed.

4. Learned counsel for the petitioner submitted that while passing the impugned order dated 08.07.2022, the Authority has not adverted to Rule 8-A of t