M RAJU Vs. UNION OF INDIA

JUDGEMENT

(1.) THE petitioners had filed the writ petitions challenging an order dated 22nd July, 2006 issued by the Station House Officer, Police station, Nancowry directing them to produce valid documents regarding their stay in Camorta on the ground that they have been residing for a long period of time without holding any valid permit in gross violation of the provisions of the andaman and Nicobar Islands (Protection of Aboriginal Tribes), Regulations, 1956 (for short "the Regulation" ). Be it noted the Regulation was promulgated for the protection of the interests of socially and economically backward aboriginal tribes in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands.

(2.) THE writ applications were moved on various dates. Directions were issued for filing of affidavits. Interim order was passed restraining the respondents from taking any step in terms of the impugned order dated 22nd July, 2006. Affidavits have been exchanged. It may be mentioned that during the pendency of writ applications the Nicobaree Youth Association was added as a party.

(3.) IT appears from facts that the petitioners whose permit had expired and residing and carrying on business for more than twenty years in the island of camorta do not admittedly belong to an aboriginal tribe.