STATE OF BIHAR & ANR. ETC. vs KHAS KARANPURA COLLIERIES LTD. ETC.

The Supreme Court interpreted Section 30A of the Mines and Minerals (Regulation and Development) Act, 1957, which provides that certain provisions regarding mining leases do not apply to leases granted before October 25, 1949, but allows the Central Government to notify exceptions. The Court upheld the High Court's ruling that a lessee is liable to pay royalty from the date of vesting under the Bihar Land Reforms Act, 1950, to the commencement of the 1957 Act, and thereafter as per the new provisions. The judgment clarified the retrospective effect of Section 30A and affirmed the legality of demand notices issued by the State for royalty payments based on the High Court's interpretation.