The Telangana High Court recently set aside a series of penalty-demand notices and show-cause orders issued by the assistant director of Mines and Geology concerning alleged unauthorised quarrying and transportation of minerals. In a common order dated September 24, Justice K Lakshman found that the original proceedings violated the fundamental principles of natural justice, warranting a complete re-examination of the cases. The petitioners contended that they were issued show-cause notices stating that they had excavated and transported gravel unauthorisedly and were given 15 days to respond. Without considering the replies and explanations, they were issued demand notices directing them to pay certain fine amounts. And if yes, whether the officer followed the procedure laid down under the said Rules and principles of natural justice in issuing impugned demand notices.