under the Assam Public Distribution of Articles [APDA] Order, 1982. The primary grievance of the petitioners is that their licences were suspended by the respondent no. 3 with immediate effect, pending drawal of proceedings, by an Order dated 10.11.2022 on the strength of an enquiry report. The petitioners’ contention is that the enquiry caused by the Superintendent of Food, Civil Supplies and Consumer Affairs, BIEO, Assam was an ex-parte enquiry. Subsequently on 06.02.2023, the petitioners were served with a show cause notice asking them to show cause as to why action for cancellation of their licences should not be taken for violation of various clauses of the APDA Order, 1982 and terms and conditions of the licences, indicated therein. On receipt of the show cause notice, all the petitioners had submitted a joint reply on 07.02.2023. Despite elapse of more than 6 [six] months from submission of the joint reply, the respondent authorities have not brought the enquiry proceedings, drawn up against the petitioners, to logical conclusion. It is, thus, contended that prolonged suspension has caused prejudice to the petitioners as the Fair Price Shops run by the petitioners are essential for their livelihood.
