JOINT DIRECTOR OF MINES SAFETY vs TANDUR & NAYANDGI STONEQUARRIES (P) LTD.

The Supreme Court interpreted the word 'and' in Section 3(1)(b)(ii) of the Mines Act, 1952, holding it should be read disjunctively as 'or'. This interpretation allows for the application of the Act if any one of the conditions in the proviso is met, thereby ensuring the safety of workers in mines. The Court overturned the High Court's decision, affirming that the respondents were required to appoint a qualified Manager for their mine under Section 22 read with Section 17 of the Act.