P. Narayana Bhat vs State Of Tamil Nadu & Ors

The Supreme Court upheld the validity of Section 326 of the City Municipal Corporation Act, 1998, and its amendment, rejecting the appellants' claims that it violated Article 14 and Article 19(1)(a) of the Constitution. The Court agreed with the High Court's conclusion that the appellants, as hoarding owners, did not possess a fundamental right to advertise under Article 19(1)(a). However, the Court emphasized the necessity of adhering to principles of natural justice in the enforcement of the Act, particularly regarding the time allowed for license applications and renewals.