J.K. Mathur, J. - (1.) THIS petition seeks to challenge the order passed by the District Magistrate, suspending the petitioner's arm licence and an order passed in Appeal by the Commissioner confirming the order passed by the District Magistrate. The petitioner was served with a notice requiring him to show cause why his licence be not suspended. After hearing, an order was passed by the District Magistrate on 26.2.1992. Being satisfied that there exists sufficient reason for doing so he suspended the licence granted to the petitioner. This order was confirmed by the Commissioner in appeal on 24.4.1993.
(2.) NOTICES have been accepted by learned Standing Counsel on behalf of the opposite parties. In view of the fact that the question of law was raised on which the parties' counsel were heard and with their consent the petition is being disposed of finally. The main contention raised on behalf of the petitioner is that licence cannot be suspended for an indefinite period and in the present case no period has been specified in either of the two orders passed by the Licensing Authority or the Appellate Authority. The order is against the provisions of law and not sustainable.
(3.) A perusal of Sec. 17(3) of Arms Act would show that the Licensing Authority may suspend the licence for such a period as he thinks fit or revoke it on being satisfied on any of the grounds mentioned in Clauses (a) to (c) in that sub -section. This itself would show that the suspension should be for a specific period which is to be given by the authority concerned.;