( 1 ). Validity of Rules 4 and 6 (a) (j) (i) to (iii) of the Delhi Holdings (Consolidation and Prevention of Fragmentation) Rules, 1959, is in question in this writ petition.

( 2 ). The petitioners who are three in number, are residents of Village khera Kalan, Delhi and hold bhoomidari rights in respect of agricultural land. They are said to be members of the Gaon Sabha of the said village.

( 3 ). East Punjab Holdings (Consolidation and Prevention of fragmentation) Act, 1948 was enacted to provide for the compulsory consolidation of agricultural holdings and for preventing fragmentation of agricultural holdings in the State of Punjab and for assignment or reservation of land for common purposes of the village.

( 4 ). The said Act was extended to the Union Territory of Delhi by an appropriate notification on or about 18/12/1951. The Delhi holdings (Consolidation and Prevention of Fragmentation) Rules, 1959 were made in terms of provisions of the said Act.

( 5 ). In the years 1952-53, consolidation of land holding in village Khera kalan took place and settlement was effected.

( 6 ). A notification was issued by the Revenue Department of the Delhi administration on or about