Timely processing of applications under environmental conservation statutes is mandated by the court.

JUDGMENT

The above Writ Petition (C) is filed with the following prayers:

"i) Issue a writ of mandamus or any other writ direction or order directing the 2^nd respondent to process Exhibit P 3 and P5, applications in Form 6, within a specified time.

ii)Dispense the petitioner from producing the English translation of the vernacular documents produced along with the writ petition.

iii) Issue such other writ or direction as this Hon’ble Court deems fit and proper to grant in the facts and circumstances of the case."

[SIC]

2. The main prayer in this Writ Petition is to consider Ext.P5 Form - 6 application submitted by the petitioner under Section 27A read with Rule 12(1) of the Kerala Conservation of Paddy Land and Wetland Act and Rules , 2008 ('Act and Rules' in short).

3. Heard the learned counsel for the petitioner and the learned Government Pleader.

4. After hearing both sides, I think there can be a direction to consider Ext.P5 within a time frame.

Therefore, this Writ Petition is disposed of in the following manner:

1. The 5^th respondent is directed to submit the necessary report based on the Ext. P5 application to the 3^rd respondent/Authorised Officer within a period of one month from the date of receipt of a certified copy of this judgment.

2. The 3^rd respondent/Authorised O directed to consider the Ext.P5 application (if it is pending and if it is in order) based on the report received from the 5^th respondent, as expeditiously as possible, at any rate, within a period of three months from the date of receipt of the report. I make it clear that the 3^rd respondent is free to pass appropriate orders in accordance with the law.

3. The petitioner will produce a certified copy of this judgment, along with a copy of this Writ Petition with exhibits, before the 3^rd and 5^th respondents for compliance.

Sd/-

P.V.KUNHIKRISHNAN JUDGE DM