P. NARAYANA BHAT vs STATE OF TAMIL NADU & ORS.

The Supreme Court upheld the validity of Section 326 of the City Municipal Corporation Act, Tamil Nadu Act 51/1998 and Amended Act 2/2000, 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, being 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 application process for licenses, indicating that the authorities must provide sufficient time for applicants to comply with the licensing requirements.