Withdrawal of administrative permission for religious fair without hearing violates principles of natural justice and legitimate expectation.

The petitioner, representing a committee that traditionally organizes a Taazia procession and religious fair (Mela) at Dhobi Ghat, Indore, applied for permission for the year 2026 on June 3, 2026.

On June 25, 2026, the Municipal Corporation granted permission subject to a fee of Rs. 1,36,007/- for a three-day event starting June 26, 2026.

On the night of June 25, 2026, the Mayor-in-Council (MIC) passed a resolution withdrawing this permission, citing alleged non-compliance with conditions and unpaid fees from the previous year, as well as public opposition.

The petitioner challenged this withdrawal as a violation of natural justice and personal liberty, asserting that all previous dues were cleared.

Principles of Natural Justice, specifically audi alteram partem (the right to be heard).

Doctrine of Legitimate Expectation.

Administrative decisions causing prejudice to a party must follow a fair decision-making process.

Title of Land is distinct from the Validity of Administrative Permission.

The Court noted that the permission granted by the competent officer on June 25, 2026, explicitly recognized the event as a "traditional fair" and contained no mention of past violations.

The MIC’s decision to cancel this permission at 8:15 P.M. on the eve of the event—without any notice or hearing—was deemed administratively improper.

The Court found that the petitioner had a legitimate expectation to proceed once permission was issued and fees were set, especially since the Mela had already commenced by the time the petitioner learned of the cancellation.

The Court rejected the respondent's reliance on a 2024 appellate judgment regarding land title, concluding that title disputes do not justify the arbitrary withdrawal of a validly issued administrative permit without due process.

The original permission (Annexure P/6) was revived for the current year.

The Court issued mandatory directions: (i) the petitioner must apply for permission at least 2.5 months in advance, and (ii) the Municipal Corporation must decide on such applications at least 30 days before the event.

The Court clarified it was not deciding the permanent right to hold the Mela, but only the validity of the permission for 2026.