Deputy Commissioner Lacks Power To Initiate Confiscation Proceeding: Jharkhand High Court Declares Rule 11(V) Ultra Vires To Mines &

The Jharkhand High Court ruled that a Deputy Commissioner does not possess the authority to initiate confiscation proceedings under the Jharkhand Mineral Rules or the Mines and Minerals Act. The court determined that only designated officials or authorities, specified by the relevant laws, have the power to conduct such proceedings. This decision emphasizes adherence to the legal framework governing mineral resources and aims to ensure that confiscation actions are carried out by competent authorities, thereby safeguarding due process and legal compliance.