Muhammed Ajmal vs Sub Inspector Of Police

C.Jayachandran, J

The petitioner is aggrieved by the non-reporting of the seizure of his vehicle alleging violation of the provisions of the Kerala Minor Mineral Concession Rules, 2015 and the Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) Act, 1957.

It is the contention of the petitioner that the petitioner is prepared to compound the offence. However, the same is not feasible due to the fact that the seizure has not been reported by the 1st respondent to the 2nd respondent. Learned counsel for the petitioner would confine his prayer for a direction to the 1st respondent to report the seizure to the 2nd respondent, as also, to permit the petitioner to compound the offence within a time frame to be fixed by this Court.

In answer to the above submission, learned Government Pleader would submit that the 1st respondent has reported the seizure to the R.D.O. concerned, who, however, is not the competent authority.

In the facts and circumstances, the 1st respondent is directed to report the seizure of the vehicle to the 2nd respondent, within two days from today (20.05.2024). Once the seizure is reported, petitioner will file a necessary application seeking compounding of the offence as per statute. The application so filed will be considered by the 2nd respondent, in accordance with law, within a time frame of two weeks, from the date of receipt of such application.

This W.P.(C) is disposed of accordingly.