1. This Letters Patent Appeal has been preferred against the order dated 13.11.2014, passed in writ petition being W.P.(C) No.5368 of 2014 whereby, the learned single Judge quashed an order dated 04.09.2014 passed by this appellant - State. By this order dated 04.09.2014, State of Jharkhand had directed respondent to stop mining activities. While quashing an order dated 04.09.2014, learned Single Judge has directed the State of Jharkhand to take a decision under S.8(3) of Mines and Minerals (Development & Regulation) Act, 1957 (hereinafter referred to as "the Act, 1957" for the sake of brevity).

2. Learned counsel appearing for the appellant - State has submitted that initially the lease was granted on 22.02.1949 for 30 years, which expired in the year 1979. An application for extension of the first lease was preferred and the same was granted for another 30 years. The said extended period for lease also expired on 21.02.2009. On 08.02.2008, an application for extension of the lease was preferred and the same has not been granted by the appellant - State. Meanwhile, Hon'ble Supreme Court has decided in the case of Goa Foundation Vs. Union of India & Ors. reported in 2014 (6) SCC 590