Gujarat High Court seeks state’s reply over ban on Gogo paper

Gujarat High Court has sought a response from the Gujarat government after a notification issued by the Home department banning the sale of Gogo paper was challenged in court. The matter has been listed for further hearing next week.

The state government imposed the ban amid concerns over the increasing use of Gogo paper for consuming ganja and other intoxicating substances, with such items reportedly being sold at pan shops and similar outlets. 

However, traders have argued that the notification has led to indiscriminate and illogical restrictions, adversely affecting legitimate business activities.

In a writ petition filed before the HC, the petitioner contended that the notification issued by the Home department is illegal, arbitrary and beyond the authority of the government. It was submitted that the state lacked the legal competence to issue such a notification and that the order was unclear on several key aspects, containing incomplete information that raises serious questions about its validity.

The petitioner further argued that the government failed to take into account essential factors before enforcing the ban. 

According to the plea, the Home department does not have clear or specific statutory powers to impose such restrictions and issued the notification without exercising authority under the relevant law.

The petition also claimed that the manner in which the notification was issued makes it constitutionally and legally untenable, as it bypasses the procedures and safeguards prescribed under existing legislation.

After hearing the initial submissions, the high court directed the state government to file its response and adjourned the matter for further consideration next week.