(1.) These three Writ Appeals raise common questions of law and facts, hence, they have been heard together and are being disposed of by this common judgment.
(2.) Brief facts giving rise to the Writ Appeals are :
(3.) W.A.No. 232 of 2015 arises out of the judgment dated 2.12.2014 in W.P(C).No. 29439 of 2014. The petitioner's case in the Writ Petition was that he, being a contractor, has been authorised by M/s.United Construction Company Engineering Contractors, who is a railway contractor, to supply red earth for the purpose of doubling the railway track between Chengannoor-Chingavanam. The petitioner's case further was that he was also granted mining permit dated 18.8.2014 for extraction of red earth, which permit was valid upto 1.11.2014. The petitioner, before expiry of the permit, had made an application dated 31.10.2014 for renewal of permit. An order was passed by the learned single Judge directing the Government to consider the representation submitted by the petitioner. The Government on 1.12.2014 rejected the application of the petitioner seeking renewal of permit. The Government in its order dated 1.12.2014 took a view that the railway track doubling work was awarded to another company and the petitioner is not being granted any contract by the Railway and further it was held that environmental clearance is necessary for excavation of red earth. Reference has been made to the Government order dated 21.2.2014 and memorandum dated 24.12.2013 of the Ministry of Environment and Forests.