JUDGMENT :

PRAKASH PADIA, J.

1. The matter is taken up through video conferencing.

2. Heard Sri S.K. Verma, learned Senior Advocate assisted by Sri Bipin Lal Srivastava and Sri Vinayak Verma, learned counsel for petitioner. Learned Standing Counsel accepted notice on behalf of respondent Nos.2 & 4 and Sri Liaqat Ali Siddiqui, learned counsel for respondent Nos.1 & 3.

3. The petitioner has preferred the present petition under Article 226 of the Constitution of India with the following prayers:-

"A. issue a suitable writ, order or direction in the nature of mandamus directing the respondent No.2 to pay the amount of Rs.15,96,674.75/- with an interest at the rate of 12% calculated from 01.12.2018 an also may be pleased to direct to return of the security money to the petitioner forthwith.

B. issue any other suitable order or direction, which this Hon'ble Court may deem just and proper in the facts and circumstances of the case and in the interest of justice."

4. Facts in brief as contained in the petition are that the petitioner was awarded a contract for carrying and handling fertilizers for the period between 01.04.2017 to 31.03.2018. After completion of the aforesaid work, on 30.03.2018