The withdrawal of the suspension order influenced the court's decision, highlighting the importance of adherence to principles of natural justice.

JUDGMENT

Madhav J. Jamdar, J. - Heard Mr. Vishal Thadani, learned counsel for the petitioners and Mr. S. H. Kankal, learned AGP for the Respondent-State.

2. On 8th November, 2021 these matters were argued for petitioners by Ms. Veena Thadani for some time. The learned counsel for the petitioners pointed out that although show cause notice was issued by the Collector of Pune, State Excise Department however, by show cause notice licenses were also suspended. She submitted that the same is in violation of principles of natural justice. Yesterday learned AGP sought time to take instructions and therefore, all these matters were adjourned to today.

3. Today, learned AGP produced order/clarification dated 8th November, 2021 issued by the Collector, Pune by which, it is clarified that the suspension order as contained in impugned show cause notices are withdrawn and therefore, the same will be treated as only show cause notice and as all the petitioners have replied to said show cause notice, hearing as regards said show cause notice would be held on 16th November, 2021.

4. In view of this order/clarification dated 8th November, 2021 of the Collector, Pune, Mr. Thadani, learned counsel for the petitioners fairly states that nothing survives in the Writ Petitions.

5. Writ Petitions are disposed of as infructuous.

6. It is clarified that all the contentions on merits are expressly kept open.