Gajula Harathi v. Union Of India And 3 Others

THE HON'BLE SRI JUSTICE A.RAJASHEKER REDDY W.P.NO.16064 OF 2019

O R D E R

The grievance of the petitioner, who is one of the competitors and claims to be highest bidder, is that the 2nd respondent - Indian Oil Corporation, opened the bids on 17.06.2019, and selected the private respondent No.4 for allotment of retail petrol outlet, though the land shown by him does not meet the requirements as mentioned in the notification. Heard the learned counsel for the petitioner and the learned Standing Counsel for the Indian Oil Corporation.

Clause 24 of PSU Oil Marketing Company's Manual for Selection of Dealers for Regular and Rural Retail Outlets, dated 24.11.2018, provides for grievance redressal mechanism. Learned Standing Counsel for the respondent - company submits that under sub clause (ii) of Clause 24, complaint has to be made within 30 days from the date of draw of lots / biding process.

In the present case, the allegation of the petitioner is that the land measurements provided by the 4th respondent is not meeting the requirements mentioned in the notification and against the selection of 4th respondent on 17.06.2019, he filed his objections. In view of the same, since petitioner has alternative remedy, this court is not inclined to entertain the writ petition. However, liberty is given to the petitioner to avail the grievance redressal mechanism within a period of four weeks from today, and the competent authority under the Clause 24, shall consider the same

and take action accordingly. Till such time, 'letter of allotment' (LOA), shall not be issued to any third party.

Writ petition is disposed of accordingly. Interlocutory applications pending, if any, shall stand closed. No order as to costs. ------------------------------------------ A.RAJASHEDKER REDDY,J DATE:06-08-2019 AVS Note:

C.C. by tomorrow.

B/O