'We Are Not The Police': Gujarat High Court In PIL On Violation Of Ammonium Nitrate Rules, Asks Litigant To Approach Authorities First

Permitting withdrawal of a PIL highlighting the alleged non-compliance of Ammonium Nitrate Rules 2012 by certain entities in handling the chemical, the Gujarat High Court on Wednesday asked the petitioner to first approach the concerned authorities empowered to look into the issue, and approach the court only if there is any inaction. 11 to 19 are operating ammonium nitrate conversion unit that flagrant violation of safety distance provided in ammonium nitrate rules, not complied with the rule 5 of the Ammonium Nitrate Rules; it has been urged that they are claiming exemption even though they are not entitled, that the unit is not explosive industries and not holding a license and has not taken any steps to comply with safety distance. The court then orally said, “No, not a single statement in the Writ Petition, this is a representation, not even signed, typed copy of the representation sent through registered post. Senior Counsel appearing for the petitioner would submit that the petitioner be permitted to withdraw the present petition as he proposes to approach the competent authority empowered to implement the provisions of the rules namely, Ammonium Nitrate Rules, 2012, by making specific representation raising grievances of alleged violation of rules against the private respondents 11 to 19.