JUDGMENT

The above writ petitions are filed seeking a direction to the 2^nd respondent to consider and pass orders on Ext.P9 application submitted by the petitioners under Rule 12(13) of the Conservation of Paddy Land and Wetland Rules .

2. The specific case of the petitioners is that the property is lying as dry land, and there are coconut trees more than 50 years old.

3. I have heard the learned Government Pleader also.

4. After hearing both the parties, I am inclined to dispose of the writ petitions with a direction to the 2^nd respondent/authorised officer to take a final decision on Ext.P9 application submitted by the petitioners in accordance with law, after affording an opportunity of being heard to the petitioners, within a period of 6 months from the date of receipt of a copy of this judgment. Petitioners shall produce a copy of the writ petition along with the judgment before the 2^nd respondent/authorised officer. Petitioners will be free to submit notes of argument, producing all the relevant documents in support of their contentions, which shall be duly considered by the 2^nd respondent/authorised officer while taking a decision as directed above.