The court confirmed the necessity for expediting penalty proceedings under relevant mining regulations.

Heard Ms. Daisy A. Philipose, learned counsel for the petitioner, Mr. Philip J. Vettickattu, learned counsel for the 7^th respondent, and Mr. V. Tekchand, learned Senior Government Pleader.

2. In view of the fact that proceedings have already been initiated by the authorities concerned for realisation of penalties under Section 21 (5) of the Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) Act , 1957 read with Rule 108 of the Kerala Minor Mineral Concession Rules , 2015, we are not inclined to pass any further orders, save and except that the State shall complete the proceedings as expeditiously as possible, and in the event it is found that there is contravention of any other provisions, take immediate steps for realisation of the penalties, in accordance with law, within a period of six weeks from date. The final decision shall be communicated to the writ petitioner.

3. The writ petition is accordingly disposed of.

Sd/-