DOIWALA SEHKARI SHRAM SAMVIDA SAMITI LTD vs STATE OF UTTARANCHAL .

The Supreme Court addressed the legality of the State of Uttaranchal's policy creating a monopoly in mining minor minerals, as challenged under Rule 9-A of the U.P. Minor Minerals (Concession) Rules, 1963. The Court held that the District Magistrate's refusal to grant a lease to the appellant, despite recommendations from relevant authorities, was arbitrary and violated principles of natural justice. The Court directed the District Magistrate to reconsider the application for the mining lease, thereby upholding the appellant's right to a fair hearing under the law.