KHARGRAM PANCHAYAT SAMITY & ANR. vs STATE OF WEST BENGAL & ORS.

The Supreme Court held that under Section 117 of the West Bengal Panchayat Act, 1973, the Panchayat Samiti has the authority to grant licenses for holding fairs, which includes the power to specify the days on which such fairs shall be held. The Court found that the District Magistrate's directive to hold the fairs on different days was valid to maintain public peace, and the Panchayat Samiti's resolution to hold the Nagar Cattle Hat on Saturday and the Sherpur Cattle Hat on Friday was upheld. The judgment emphasized the implied powers of local authorities to take necessary actions for public order and safety.