DIPANKAR SAHA Vs. CESC LIMITED

JUDGEMENT

(1.) The writ petitioner sought an individual metered electricity connection for his advocate's chamber at Room No. 105, 4th Floor, 10 Old Post Office Street, Kolkata-700 001.

(2.) The CESC Limited declined to give the same and indicated that it was willing to give such connection if an application is made for a block meter which would cater to the needs of several persons.

(3.) It is contended by learned counsel for the petitioner that Sec. 43 of the Electricity Act, 2003 (for short, "the 2003 Act") casts a duty on the distribution licensee to give electricity supply on an application being made by an owner or occupier of a premises within one month after receipt of the application for such purpose. The first proviso to Sec. 43, it is argued, makes it abundantly clear that the distribution licensee would have to supply the electricity even if it requires extension of distribution mains or commissioning of new sub-stations.