1. The impugned order dated 26th March, 2014 terminating the liquefied petroleum gas (LPG for short) distributorship of the petitioners by the respondent Indian Oil Corporation Limited (IOCL for short) is the subject matter of challenge in the instant writ petition.

2. All the parties have been served. An affidavit of service is on record. None appears on behalf of the respondent no. 6 in spite of service. The facts of the case are as follows:

3. Hiralal Sarkar the petitioner no. 3 as sole proprietor of M/s. Bimala Gas Service applied for obtaining LPG distributorship at Dhupguri, district Jalpaiguri sometimes in 1996. A letter of intent was issued in his favour by IOCL on 2nd April, 1996. As per Clause 1.2 of the said letter of intent the distributor was debarred from inducting any partner during the continuation of the distributorship. The said letter of intent was thereafter cancelled by IOCL vide letter dated 6th February, 1997 and was again revived vide letter dated 3rd August, 2000. A formal letter of appointment of the petitioner No.3 as distributor was issued by IOCL on 15th February, 2001. An agreement of distributorship was executed by and between the said Hiralal