JUDGMENT

Suman Shyam, J. - Heard Mr. M. K. Choudhury, learned senior counsel assisted by Mr. S. Khound, learned counsel appearing on behalf of the writ petitioner M/S Gauripur Cooperative Fishery Society Ltd. in WP(C) Nos.2562/2020, 3051/2020, 4434/2020 and 5216/2020. Also heard Mr. D. K. Sarmah, learned counsel appearing on behalf of the writ petitioner M/S Geramari Gaon Panchayat Meen Samabay Samity Ltd. in WP(C) Nos.3379/2020 and 2343/2020.

Ms. M. Bhattacharjee, learned Addl. Senior Govt. Advocate, Assam, is present on behalf of the official respondents. Mr. G. Bordoloi, learned Standing Counsel, Cooperation Department is also present.

2. The dispute in this batch of writ petitions relates to regular settlement of the Group No.1/87 Dharnad Brahmapputra Pt-I & Satakuri Nadi Fishery situated in the district of Dhubri. The aforesaid fishery was earlier settled with M/S Gauripur Cooperative Fishery Society Ltd. for a period of 7 years with effect from 04.03.2013. The lease was due for expiry on 03.03.2020. As such, the Deputy Commissioner, Dhubri had issued Notice Inviting Tender (NIT) dated 27.02.2020 inviting fresh bids for regular settlement of the aforesaid fishery for a further p