SHANTHRAJ PRAVEEN Vs. STATE OF KARNATAKA

JUDGEMENT

(1.) In this petition, the petitioner inter alia seeks a writ of certiorari for quashment of the impugned endorsements dtd. 13/9/2022 by which, the tender process has been rescinded. The petitioner also seeks a writ of certiorari for quashment of the tender notification dtd. 24/9/2022.

(2.) Facts giving rise to filing of this petition briefly stated are that a tender notification dtd. 21/12/2021 was issued by the Senior Geologist, Department of Mines and Geology, for grant of building stone quarry lease for a period of 20 years in Sy.No.38 of Melinakurvalli Village, Thirthahalli Taluk, Shivamogga District. The total extent of 8 acres of land was divided into 4 blocks to the extent of 2 acres each. The petitioner submitted bid in respect of Block Nos.3 and 4 under the General Category.

(3.) The tender process consisted of three rounds. Clause 8.1.1 of the tender notification prescribes that the bidder shall submit a technical bid before the due date. The second round of the tender process prescribes that the bidder shall submit initial price offer which includes royalty for one metric ton of building stone fixed by the Government plus 20% and more of the royalty amount. The third round of the tender process is that the successful bidder shall participate in the auction proceedings by quoting different rates at different intervals of time.