RAM AND SHYAM COMPANY vs STATE OF HARYANA AND ORS

The Supreme Court held that the rule requiring exhaustion of alternative remedies under Article 226 of the Constitution is one of convenience and discretion, not a strict rule of law. The Court found that the High Court erred in dismissing the appellant's writ petition on the grounds of alternative remedies, as the order of the Chief Minister was deemed illegal for not providing the appellant an opportunity to contest. The Court allowed the appeal, ordering a re-auction in which the appellant successfully bid Rs. 25 lakhs, thus affirming the need for adherence to principles of natural justice in public property auctions.