TEJAL RAJUBHAI CHAUDHURY Vs. DISTRICT COLLECTOR

JUDGEMENT

(1.) The petitioner herein runs a petrol pump. In the year 1995, on a surprise inspection check, the authorities found several irregularities. A show cause notice,therefore, came to be issued on 2.6.1995 levelling several irregularities committed by the petitioner in running the said petrol pump. In the show cause notice, it is stated, inter alia, that on inspection quantity of diesel was found in excess to the extent of 7670 liters and petrol was found in excess by 625 liters. It was also alleged that density of the diesel was not as per the norms and that in the 5 liter can, the consumers were being supplied diesel/petrol less by 300 m.l. It was additionally alleged that proper records of the stocks were not maintained leading to the conclusion that the petitioner was indulging in mixing of the petrol and diesel and selling the excess quantity.

(2.) At the outset, it may be noted that ultimately, the Government did not accept the charge of density of the fuel not being as per the norms and the measurements being defective. Nevertheless, the charges regarding excess quantity of diesel and petrol was believed. It is also believed that the petitioner had indulged in mixing of the fuel with some other substance and selling the excess quantity in the market.

(3.) On the basis of the conclusions, after considering the objection of the petitioner, the Competent Authority, i.e. Collector decided to confiscate the quantity of diesel and petrol found in excess by the impugned order dated 21.7.95.