Right under Article 19(1)(g) also Includes Right to Shut Down a Business: Supreme Court

The Supreme Court held that the right to carry on any occupation, trade, or business under Article 19(1)(g) of the Constitution also includes the right to close down a business.

This right is not absolute and is subject to reasonable restrictions, especially concerning workers’ rights under Section 25-O of the Industrial Disputes Act, 1947.

The Court ruled that Harinagar’s application to shut its biscuit unit was valid and time-bound, stating that authorities cannot delay closure approvals indefinitely.

The court further directed enhanced compensation of ₹5 crore to affected workers, reinforcing that closure decisions must balance business freedom with labour welfare.