An Australian court on Friday dismissed a legal challenge to the mining leases granted to Adani Enterprises Ltd. Carmichael coal mine project. The application against the $21 billion (approximately Rs 1.4 lakh crore) project was filed by an organisation representing the indigenous community, the Members of Wangan and Jagalingou, who said the National Native Title Tribunal had made an incorrect decision in awarding the leases to the energy major.

W&J senior traditional owner Adrian Burragubba (pictured above) argued that the NNTT had been misled by Adani regarding the economic benefits that would be created by the mine. However, Justice John Reeves said that the application filed against the Queensland government, Adani and the NNTT had no merit, adding that the Tribunal had not failed to observe rules or exercise its jurisdiction.

Criticising the judgement, Burragubba said the W&J would seek advice from its legal team on seeking an appeal in the matter. “We continue to be restricted in the full expression of our laws and customs,” he said. Meanwhile, Adani welcomed the relief granted to his company, saying it would continue to work with members of the indigenous community.

Earlier, Adani owner Gautam Adani had expressed his frustration with the delays in the project. He had also said he could not wait indefinitely to begin work on the mine.