Kerala High Court: Police Inaction Violates Business Rights, Orders Protection for Quarry Study

The Kerala High Court has ruled that the failure of the police to protect a quarry operator from obstruction violates the fundamental right to carry on business under Article 19(1)(g) of the Constitution.

The petitioner, who had leased land for quarrying, was prevented from conducting a scientific study by private individuals, despite paying all necessary fees. Alleging police inaction, he filed a writ.

The Court held that lawful business cannot be obstructed by force and directed the Station House Officer and Deputy SP to provide protection, stressing that authorities must act unless the activity is prohibited by law.

(Sobin P.K. v. State of Kerala and Ors)