Seetaram Challenges Refusal to Register Fish Import Companies in Court

Basdeo Kumar Seetaram is contesting the Ministry of Agro-Industry’s refusal to register his companies as fish importers. He stated that no reasons were provided for the rejection and is calling it an injustice and abuse of power. Seetaram has filed for judicial review after his registration requests were denied without explanation.

His two companies, Tripod Fish Ltd and BKS Resources Ltd, represented by Seetaram as managing director, submitted applications to be recognized as authorized importers of seafood.

He claimed that the Ministry of Agro-Industry and Blue Economy rejected these applications unfairly and without justification.

The cases were scheduled for hearing on Monday, June 2, 2025, before Chief Justice Bibi Rehana Mungly-Gulbul.

Seetaram was absent but was represented by his lawyer, Sultan Sohawon. The Principal State Attorney, Doorgesh Kumar Manikaran, representing the ministry, announced he would review the cases. The court will reconvene to hear the matter again on June 16, 2025.

Seetaram’s allegations of abuse of power are detailed in two affidavits dated April 29, 2025.

He stated that the applications were submitted on January 15, 2025, including documents such as the company registration, business license indicating fish import/export, a CEB invoice, a copy of his refrigerated truck’s registration, and proof of a cold storage facility.

According to affidavits, on March 5, 2025, the authorities informed him—by letter received on March 10—that his applications could not be considered, but no reasons were provided.

Seetaram described this as an unfair decision that violates principles of administrative fairness.

He claimed that the ministry did not give his companies an opportunity to respond or demonstrate that they met all the necessary requirements.

The businessman emphasized that his companies have been registered and operating smoothly for the past five years.

He urged the Supreme Court to review and overturn the ministry’s decision, asserting that it was an abuse of power and that his businesses are legitimate and compliant.

Source: Defi Media