GNANAPRAGASAM Vs. ASSISTANT DIRECTOR, MINES AND MINERALS

JUDGEMENT

(1.) This writ petition has been filed for a Mandamus seeking for a direction to the respondents to release the tipper lorry of the petitioner bearing Registration Number TN 63 BD 4613.

(2.) By consent of both parties, the Writ Petition is taken up for final disposal at the admission stage itself. Mr.C.Ramesh, learned Special Government Pleader accepts notice on behalf of the respondents.

(3.) It is the case of the petitioner that he is the owner of the Tipper Lorry bearing Registration No.TN 63 BD 4613. According to him, on 28.09.2020, the third respondent has registered a case against the petitioner in Crime No.538 of 2020 for the offence punishable under Section 21(1) of Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation Act), 1957 alleging that the petitioner has transported gravel sand in his vehicle without proper invoices. The petitioner's vehicle was seized by the third respondent Police on the same day and handed over before the first respondent. According to the petitioner, ever since the seizure, the said vehicle is still in the custody of the Police.