Telangana High Court seeks GHMC reply on beef shop closure order

Justice B Vijaysen Reddy asked GHMC to justify its order closing beef shops on August 15 and 16, after a petitioner challenged the directive as arbitrary, lacking legal basis or explanation

By Legal Correspondent

Hyderabad: Justice B Vijaysen Reddy of the Telangana High Court on Monday directed the Greater Hyderabad Municipal Corporation (GHMC) to explain the basis for its recent order mandating the closure of beef shops and slaughterhouses on Independence Day (August 15) and Janmashtami (August 16).

---

The direction came in a writ petition filed by law student Vadla Srikanth, represented by advocate Vijay Gopal, challenging the legality of the GHMC Commissioner’s directive.

The petitioner contended that the order, issued under Section 533(b) of the GHMC Act, lacked any cause of action, statutory backing, or stated reasons, and amounted to a “colourable exercise of authority.” It was argued that the provision invoked by the GHMC does not empower the Commissioner to order the closure of lawful businesses without citing specific grounds.

The petitioner maintained that such decisions adversely impact the livelihood of traders engaged in legitimate and peaceful activities, and that they are entitled to know the rationale for being asked to suspend operations on those days.

The plea further alleged that the order was arbitrary, illegal, and in violation of Articles 14 and 19(1)(g) of the Constitution. Justice Vijaysen Reddy adjourned the matter to August 13 for the GHMC’s response.