SOBIN P. K. Vs. STATE OF KERALA

JUDGEMENT

(1.) The petitioner took on lease certain land in Kuttamangalam Village, Kothamangalam Taluk in Ernakulam District for the purpose of conducting quarrying activities. The petitioner states that some persons including the party respondent are attempting to get rid of the petitioner in order to start the quarrying operations themselves. They allege that if quarrying operations are conducted by the petitioner, it would damage a water tank owned by the Kerala Water Authority. The tank is 145 metres away from the proposed quarry.

(2.) By Ext.P1 judgment in W.P.(C) No.25341/2020, this Court had directed to conduct a scientific study on the effect of quarrying operations on the said water tank. The Senior Geologist, as per Ext.P2 report, has stated that the proposed quarrying site is not vulnerable to landslides in and around. The Senior Geologist reported that the site condition is suitable for quarrying activities.

(3.) The petitioner paid requisite fee to the National Institute of Technology, Surathkal, Karnataka to conduct a scientific study in the proposed quarry area. On 2/7/2024, when the petitioner along with the inspection team of NIT, Surathkal approached the quarrying area, the 4th respondent and his henchman prevented them from conducting any inspection. The technical team from NIT, Surathkal was not permitted to enter the premises. The petitioner was attacked by the 4th respondent. The petitioner submitted Ext.P6 petition to the police. The police did not extend any help.