CHOKHANI INTERNATIONAL LTD Vs. UNION OF INDIA

JUDGEMENT

(1.) This suit has been filed by the plaintiff as a quantum meruit action. Quantum meruit is a latin phrase and it means "what one has earned" or "as much as he has earned". In simpler terms, it refers to the actual value of the services rendered or performed. As per the quantum meruit principle, even if there is no specific contract, there is an implied promise to pay a reasonable amount for the labour and material furnished.

(2.) The plaintiff claims that, for the additional services rendered by them to the defendants, the defendants are liable to pay despite there being no specific promise made by the defendants under the contract to pay for the said services. According to the plaintiff, based on quantum meruit principle, there is an implied promise made by the defendants to pay the plaintiff for the additional services rendered by them as the defendants have benefited from the additional services.

(3.) The suit has been filed by the plaintiff based on quantum meruit principle for the recovery of the sums allegedly payable towards additional wharfage yard services amounting to a sum of Rs.2,71,97,987.00 together with interest on Rs.1,77,47,463.00 at 18% p.a. from the date of the plaint till the date of realisation.