B.C.BASAK, J.

1. In these four writ petitions the petitioners have challenged the constitutional validity of the Bihar Ban on Lottery Act, 1993, (hereinafter referred to as the said Act) which replaces the Bihar Ban on Lottery Ordinance, 1993 (hereinafter referred to as (the said Ordinance).

2. The said Act provides as follows :-

"The Bihar Ban on Lottery Act, 1993. 2. Definitions - In this Act unless the context otherwise requires - (a) "Agent" means and includes Main Stockist or icy whatever name called, who may be an individual or a group of persons or a company registered under the Companies Act, 1956 or a Partnership firm entrusted with the responsibility of sale of State Lottery tickers on an agency basis on behalf of the State Government. (b) "Lottery" means a scheme for distribution of prizes by lot or chance to those persons participating in the chances of a prize by purchasing ticket. (c) "Promoters" in relation to a lottery includes an organiser or any person having control on the conduct of a lottery. Ban on Lottery - Notwithstanding any agreement or contract entered into by the State Government with any person, no person shall be permitted to deal within the tr