J SURESHKUMAR Vs. ASSISTANT EXECUTIVE ENGINEER

JUDGEMENT

(1.) THESE four writ petitions are filed by the husband and wife. While the husband J.Sureshkumar is running a Plastic Unit by name Bharathi Plastic Company at No.13, Muniappa Mudeali Street, Old Washermenpet, Chennai, the wife Mrs.Lakshmi is running another Plastic Unit in the name of 'Kanimozhi Plastics'. THESE two units are having separate electricity connection.

(2.) ON 9.7.1998 at 00.05 hours when the units were inspected by the respondent officials it came to the light that the meters were found to have tampered with and unauthorised electricity consumption was noted. A mahazar was prepared in the presence of VAO, Tondiaropet and the statements of the petitioners were recorded. A case of energy theft was also filed against the petitioners in Crime No.653 of 1998 at H4 Korukkupet Police Station. Based upon the inspection report and the statements recorded, including the mahazar, a show cause notice was given to both the petitioners dated 14.7.1998. It was indicated in the show cause notice as to why the petitioners' industries should not be imposed with extra levy for the offence committed by them and they were also asked to appear for a personal enquiry on 4.8.1998. As against the said show cause notices Writ Petitions 12409 and 12410 of 1998 were filed.

(3.) THE above writ petitions were merely directed to be posted along with the earlier two writ petitions and they were not admitted by this Court. Hence, all the four writ petitions are heard together.