ALTERNATIVE ENERGY SYSTEMS AND DEVICES Vs. MAHARASHTRA STATE ELECTRICITY DISTRIBUTION COMPANY LIMITED

JUDGEMENT

(1.) M/S Alternative Energy Systems & Devices, a partnership firm, the complainant, runs an industrial unit at Dhule. The Maharashtra State Electricity Distribution Company, OP, supplies the electricity to the complainant. On 21.07.1998, flying squad of opponent board visited the industry of the complainant and found that the meter was running 92% slow. Consequently, the Opposite Party sent a supplementary bill on 27.05.1999, in the sum of Rs.3,83,634/-. The same bill was challenged by the complainant by filing Civil Suit in the Court of Civil Judge, Senior Division, Dhule, claiming injunction restraining opponent board from making the above said demand. The Civil Judge, Senior Division, Dhule rejected the said application of the complainant and directed to approach Electrical Inspector, as per the requisite law. However, the Opponent Board was directed to restore the electric supply by getting 20% amount deposited. Accordingly, the complainant deposited 20% amount and got restored the electric supply.

(2.) The Electrical Inspector, Nashik, inspected the electric meter and found it 89% slow and directed the opponent Board to issue bill for six months. Opponent Board approached the Minister of Energy, challenging order of Electrical Inspector and in the meantime, the OP issued another supplementary bill in the sum of Rs.6,71,995.60, as per direction of Minister. The complainant paid 20% amount of the bill, under protest. Further, Minister vide order dated 14.07.2008 upheld the decision of Electrical Inspector. Consequently, the complainant's electricity supply was disconnected for 13 months.

(3.) Vide notice dated 07.12.2001, the complainant claimed refund of amount of Rs.1,34,000/-, which he had deposited under protest, as per directions of Civil Court and the Minister. However, the complainant did not comply the notice.