Kerala High Court – Non-NHA Petrol Pumps Can Use Discretion To Disallow General Public To Use Toilets

The Kerala High Court clarified that petrol pumps not situated on National Highways may exercise discretion in granting or denying public access to restroom facilities. The Court distinguished such pumps from National Highway stations, which have a statutory and public service obligation to maintain essential facilities. It emphasized that while providing basic sanitation is encouraged, private businesses retain operational autonomy regarding the use of their premises by the general public. The judgment balanced private property rights with public interest, reinforcing that courts must interpret public service obligations contextually. This ruling delineates clear boundaries for regulatory expectations and ensures private entities are not compelled to extend services beyond their operational mandate.