Delhi HC directs Centre to expedite decision on ArcelorMittal mining lease

Decision to be made before Jan 11, which is date of expiry of two-year period mentioned in the Act

The Delhi High Court asked the Centre on Monday to fast-track the decision-making process on an application for grant of a mining lease made by European steel manufacturing giant, ArcelorMittal, which intends to set up a 12 million tonne per year plant in the Indian state of Jharkhand.

ArcelorMittal brought the issue before the court, alleging government inaction for almost two years in processing the application, even after all requirements in line, the request being duly complied with under applicable mining laws.

The company contended that under Section 10A(2)(c) of the Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) Act as amended in 2015,