Repeal of existing law

The Decree No. 386, dated 22nd February, 1906 promulgated by Arrete No. 385, dated 18th June, 1906 shall stand repealed. (1) Every application for a pawnbroker’s licence shall be in writing and shall be made to the licensing authority prescribed under this Act. (2) The licence shall not be refused except on one or both of the following grounds, namely :- (a) that the applicant is of bad character. Explanation. – If any evidence of bad character is adduced against the applicant, he shall be given an opportunity of rebutting such evidence; and (b) that the shop or place at which he intends to carry on the business of a pawnbroker or any adjacent house or shop or place, owned or occupied by him, is frequented by thieves or persons of bad character: Provided that the licence shall not be refused under this sub-section unless the applicant has had a reasonable opportunity of making his representations. (3) In granting or refusing to grant a licence under this section, the licensing authority may consult such authority or officer as may be prescribed. (3-A) Any person aggrieved by an order of the licensing authority refusing to grant a licence under this section may, within such time as may be prescribed, appeal to such authority as the Administrator may specify in this behalf and such authority may make such order in the case as he may think fit. (4) Every licence shall be granted in such form and subject to such conditions as may be prescribed and on payment of such fee not exceeding Rs. 100 as the Administrator may, from time to time, by notification in the Official Gazette, determine.