Constitution of India, 1950 – Article 226 – Power of High Courts to issue writs – Judicial review of administrative actions – Discretionary powers of municipal authorities – Violation of principles of natural justice – Remedy of certiorari available – ( Para: 5)

Civil Procedure Code, 1908 (CPC) – Order 39, Rule 1 and 2 – Grant of temporary injunction – Preservation of status quo – Interim reliefs in property disputes – (Para: 7)

The High Court held that the municipal council failed to adhere to the principles of natural justice by not granting the petitioner a fair hearing – ( Para: 9)

Issues:

1. Whether the discretionary power exercised by the municipal council violated the principles of natural justice – Relevant Para: 6

2. Whether the petitioner was entitled to interim relief by way of a temporary injunction – Relevant Para: 8

Submissions/Arguments:

a. Petitioner contended that the municipal council acted arbitrarily and without providing an opportunity for a hearing – Relevant Para: 4 b. Respondent No.1 argued that the actions were within statutory discretion and in compliance with legal procedures – Relevant Para: 5 c. Respondent No.2 supported the municipal council’s stand, emphasizing the absence of any legal violation – Relevant Para: 6

Ratio:

The discretionary powers conferred upon municipal authorities must be exercised in accordance with the principles of natural justice – (Para: 10)

Subjects:

Judicial Review – Natural Justice – Discretionary Powers – Property Rights – Temporary Injunction – Administrative Action