After a comprehensive presentation by the Advocate General representing the Government, Justice Krishna Kumar has adjourned the hearing of the Bangalore Turf Club`s petition for a stay on the refusal of their license and the High Court`s directive for issuance of the license has been rescheduled to Friday afternoon. The Advocate General has not yet completed his arguments, as he has numerous citations supporting the government`s decision to deny the license, based on allegations of tax evasion by the bookmakers and collusion among the turf club officials. Following the conclusion of the Advocate General`s arguments, the petitioners` counsel will present their counterarguments. A ruling is anticipated sometime next week.

The Advocate General argued that the Bangalore Turf Club is limited to petitioning the government for license consideration and that the scope of judicial review is restricted. Furthermore, the Advocate General asserted the State`s right to refuse, withdraw, or cancel the license at any time. He contended that there was no violation of the principles of natural justice, as the statute does not mandate a hearing before issuing an order, leaving it to the discretion of the authorities. The State, having sought reports from various authorities and conducted an inquiry, was convinced of the necessity to deny the license to the Bangalore Turf Club.

The Judge noted that “Rule 5 of the licensing rules was not complied with.” The Judge indicated a willingness to stay the government`s refusal to issue the license but granted the Advocate General additional time on Friday to complete his submission.