Punjab and Haryana High Court Upholds Meat Traders' Rights in Anandpur Sahib
The Punjab and Haryana High Court has issued a significant ruling clarifying that no restrictions can be enforced on the sale of meat and meat products in Shri Anandpur Sahib, Punjab, until a formal implementation notification is officially issued by the competent authority. This decision comes as a relief to small traders who had challenged a government notification proposing such bans.
Background of the Legal Challenge
The case originated when small traders engaged in the sale of meat and meat products in Shri Anandpur Sahib approached the High Court. They were challenging a notification dated December 15, 2025, issued by the Government of Punjab. This notification declared Amritsar, Shri Anandpur Sahib, and Talwandi Sabo as "holy cities" and proposed a ban on liquor, meat, and meat products within these areas.
The petitioners argued that this proposed ban severely impacted their fundamental right to livelihood, which is guaranteed under Article 19(1)(g) of the Constitution of India. They contended that without proper legal backing, such restrictions would unlawfully deprive them of their means of earning a living.
Court Proceedings and State's Position
During the hearing, the state of Punjab informed the High Court that while the initial notification from December 15, 2025, had been issued, no separate notification imposing actual restrictions had yet been notified by the concerned Administrative Secretary. This admission was crucial in shaping the court's decision.
A Division Bench comprising Justice Harsimran Singh Sethi and Justice Vikas Suri presided over the case. After recording the state's statement, the bench disposed of the written petition, deeming it premature. The court observed that until restrictions are formally imposed through a proper notification, the petitioners cannot be prevented from carrying on their lawful trade, provided they operate in accordance with prescribed norms.
Key Directives from the High Court
The court issued several important directives to ensure the protection of the traders' rights:
- Continuation of Trade: Meat traders in Shri Anandpur Sahib are permitted to continue their business operations until a formal implementation notification is issued.
- Protection from Harassment: In case the petitioners face any harassment from police officials before such a notification is issued, they are authorized to file a representation before the competent authority.
- Timely Resolution: The authorities have been directed to decide on any such representation within four weeks from the date of its receipt, ensuring a prompt response to potential grievances.
This ruling underscores the judiciary's role in safeguarding constitutional rights, particularly the right to livelihood, against premature or unenforced governmental actions. It sets a precedent for similar cases where proposed bans might affect economic activities without proper legal formalities.
