Hrishikesh Roy, J.

1. Heard Mr. A.K. Goswami, learned Senior Counsel appearing for the petitioner M/s. Manash Padmabari Jiniram Fishery Cooperative Society Ltd. (hereinafter referred to as "the Manash Society"), which is registered within Goalpara District. Also heard Mr. K.K. Mahanta, learned Senior Counsel appearing for respondent No. 4, M/s. Kachudola Fishery Cooperative Society Ltd. (hereinafter referred to as 'the M/s. Kachudola Society') which is registered within Bongaigaon District Ms. H.M. Phukan, learned Govt. Advocate appears for the respondent Nos. 1 to 3.

2. This matter pertains to the settlement of No. 1, Dhar Brahmaputra Fishery a 60% category fishery which is required to be settled under Rule 12 of the Assam Fishery Rules, 1953 (hereinafter referred to as "the Fishery Rules"), with 100% actual fishermen groups, who are located in the neighbourhood of the fishery. After the amendment of the Fishery Rules brought in effect from 8th April, 2005, such fisheries are to be settled by tender system.

3. By the NIT dated 19.1.2006 (Annexure II), the Government invited tenders for settlement of the fishery for a period of 7 years with effect from 11.3.2006 to 10.3.2013.