(1.) IN this batch of 486 writ petitions, the petitioners have challenged the validity of Section 27 of the Assam General Sales Tax Act, 1993, hereinafter, referred as the Act.
(2.) WE have heard Mr. G.K. Joshi, learned Senior Advocate, Mr. D.P. Chliha, Senior Advocate, Mr. G.N. Sahewalla, Senior Advocate, Dr. B.P, Todi, Senior Advocate, Dr. Ashok Saraf, Senior Advocate, Mr. K.N. Choudhury, Senior Advocate for the petitioners. We have heard Mr. A.K. Phukan, learned Advocate General, Assam and Mr. B.J. Talukdar, learned Government Advocate, Assam on behalf of the respondent State of Assam.
(3.) CHALLENGE to Section 27 is on the following counts : -