K.M. Joseph, C.J. (Oral)

The petitions, two in number, i.e. WPPIL Nos. 93 of 2015 and 95 of 2015 being connected, they are disposed of by a common judgment.

2. In WPPIL No. 93 of 2015, the prayers sought are as follows:

“i) Issue a writ, in the nature of certiorari quashing the impugned orders dated 16-5-2015 & 19-5-2015 passed by respondent nos. 2 & 8 (contained as Annexure no. 8 to this writ petition).

ii) Issue a writ, order or direction in the nature of mandamus commanding / directing the respondent nos. 2 & 8 to stop all mining activities forthwith at different sites at Haridwar in the Holy River Ganga.

iii) Issue a writ, order or direction in the nature of mandamus commanding / directing the respondent nos. 3 & 4 to take appropriate actions against respondent nos. 2 & 8 and other responsible persons in accordance with law.

iv) issue a writ, order or direction in the nature of mandamus commanding / directing the respondent no. 1 to constitute S.I.T. to investigate the matter and to take appropriate legal action against all responsible officers and others.”

3. Briefly put, the case of the petitioner in WPPIL No. 93 of 2015 is as follows:

The District Adm