LIBERTY OIL MILLS & OTHERS vs UNION OF INDIA & OTHERS

The Supreme Court interpreted Clause 8B of the Imports (Control) Order, 1955, under the Imports and Exports (Control) Act, 1947, emphasizing that while authorities are not required to provide pre-decisional hearings, they must ensure post-decisional hearings and communicate decisions to affected parties. The Court held that actions taken under Clause 8B must be urgent and in public interest, and that natural justice principles apply, albeit variably. The Court ruled that the circulars issued to impose abeyance on import licenses were valid under the statutory framework, affirming the government's authority to act decisively in response to public agitation regarding the import of beef tallow.