The Telangana High Court had set aside the notices issued to 12 private parties by the Mines and Geology department over illegal excavation and transportation of gravel from government lands.Justice K. Lakshman of Telangana High Court, while allowing the writ petitions filed by the private parties, remanded back the matter to the Assistant Directors of Mines and Geology concerned for fresh consideration in accordance with law and principles of natural justice. The notices were issued by the government accusing the petitioners of excavating and transporting gravel without any permissions.This was violation of Rule 26-2 of the Telangana State Minor Mineral Concession Rules-1966, according to the government. Eventually, the government imposed penalties on them and sent demand notices to pay the same. The judge held that the AD concerned had the jurisdiction and power to initiate proceedings against the petitioners for violation of the rules.However, the officials failed to follow the procedure laid down in the rules. Before imposing penalty of ten times as per the rule, the authorities should offer fair hearing to the parties and consider the contentions raised by them. Setting aside the notices, the judge directed the petitioners to approach the officers concerned for supply of copies of all documents like the survey reports, data and inspection details.After receiving the reply of the petitioners, the authorities should evaluate the quantum of penalties imposed objectively and pass fresh orders in accordance with law, the judge said.Published - October 04, 2025 08:57 pm IST