RAVI RANGNATHAN IYER Vs. STATE OF MAHARASHTRA

JUDGEMENT

(1.) This application is filed challenging the order passed below Exhibit- 107 and 113 dated 03.12.2018 passed by 9th Judicial Magistrate First Class, Thane, in R.C.C. No. 337 of 2011.

(2.) Learned counsel appearing for the Applicants submits that, learned Magistrate ought to have left to the discretion of the passport authority to renew the passport as per rules. It is submitted that, if the relevant rules are considered, there is provision for issuance of passport for ten years, and therefore, learned Magistrate could not have restricted renewal of passport for two years. It is submitted that, there was no reason or occasion for curtailing the period of renewal of passport from ten years to two years. The period required for renewal of passport causes difficulties and unwarranted delay. Therefore, learned counsel appearing for Applicants relying upon the averments in the application and annexures thereto submits that, application may be allowed.

(3.) Heard learned counsel appearing for Applicants. Perused averments in the application and annexures thereto. Admittedly, the Applicants are charge-sheeted for the offences punishable under Sections 420, 406, 467 and 468 read with 34 of Indian Penal Code. The said case is pending before the Court of competent jurisdiction. Learned counsel invites attention of this Court to the notification issued by Ministry of External Affairs published on 25.08.1993, which reads thus:-