KARNATAKA ELECTRICITY BOARD BANGALORE Vs. N R PAWAR

JUDGEMENT

(1.) WE are inclined to agree with the learned Single Judge that electric supply cannot be cut off without giving an opportunity to the consumer to establish that he has not committed any theft thereof. WE do not express any definite conclusion, however, because, apart from that, there is reason not to entertain this appeal. The relevant regulation is Regulation 44.07 of the Karnataka Electricity Supply Regulations, 1988. Clauses (a) & (c) thereof are relevant. Under clause (a) it is the "authoriseed officer of the Board" who is empowered to estimate the value of the electricity that has been obstructed, used, wasted or diverted. On the other hand, in clause (c) it is the "Board" in whose favour the right to disconnect the consumer's installation forthwith and without notice is given. The "Board" is defined by Regulation 2.02 to mean: