The autorickshaw driver had approached the court in February 2025, arguing that the denial of the certificate violated his fundamental right to livelihood
MUMBAI — The Bombay High Court has upheld the denial of a Police Clearance Certificate (PCC) to Faheem Ansari, who was acquitted in the 2008 Mumbai terror attacks case, ruling that the refusal was justified in view of security concerns.
A division bench of Justice Ajay Gadkari and Justice Ranjitsinh Bhonsale on Wednesday (April 29) dismissed Ansari’s petition seeking issuance of a PCC, which he said was necessary for earning his livelihood.
Ansari had approached the court in February 2025, arguing that the denial of the certificate violated his fundamental right to livelihood. He told the court that a PCC was required to obtain a Police Service Vehicle (PSV) badge, mandatory for driving a commercial autorickshaw.
The state government, through its public prosecutor, opposed the plea, submitting that Ansari was free to pursue occupations that do not require a PCC. Accepting this argument, the court observed that the refusal to grant the certificate could not be termed arbitrary, given the nature of the case and concerns flagged by authorities.
Ansari expressed disappointment with the decision, stating that driving was his primary means of livelihood and that he was not equipped to pursue other work. He had obtained an autorickshaw licence in January 2024 and applied for a PCC due to financial constraints.
Ansari was acquitted by a special court on May 6, 2010, after allegations that he assisted the 26/11 attackers by preparing maps were found to be unsubstantiated. However, he was convicted in a separate case in Lucknow and sentenced to 10 years in prison.
Following his release in November 2019, Ansari worked at a printing press in Mumbai and Thane and later as a delivery worker during the COVID-19 pandemic.
In his plea, Ansari contended that the denial of the PCC was arbitrary and hindered his reintegration into society. He invoked his fundamental rights under Article 19(1)(g), which guarantees the freedom to practice any profession, and Article 21, which ensures the right to life and personal liberty.
