Telangana high court stays sealing of commercial unit at RTC X Roads

Hyderabad: Justice B Vijaysen Reddy of the Telangana high court on Friday stayed the closure of a commercial unit manufacturing flavouring substances at RTC X Roads.The order came on a writ petition filed by Raj Flavours and Fragrances, which challenged the action of the Greater Hyderabad Municipal Corporation and the food safety officer in sealing its premises on Aug 20.The petitioner contended that the authorities acted in undue haste, without serving proper notice or furnishing a sample analysis report. Senior counsel L Ravi Chander, appearing for the petitioner, argued that the sealing was high-handed, an abuse of process, and contrary to law. He further submitted that while the allegations pertained to violations under the Food Safety and Standards Act, the premises were sealed citing alleged illegal construction.The judge observed that, prima facie, the sealing appeared unjust and arbitrary. Justice Vijaysen Reddy accordingly directed GHMC officials to unseal the premises forthwith, restore possession to the petitioner, and permit business activities to continue, subject to compliance with law. The court, however, clarified that any enquiry against the petitioner may proceed in accordance with law, provided due opportunity of hearing is given.