M P ELECTRICITY BOARD Vs. AMAR SINGH

JUDGEMENT

(1.) This appeal has arisen from order dated 22.4.1997 passed by District Consumer Disputes Redressal Forum (for short District Forum), Indore in Complaint No.982/92.

(2.) The facts in brief are that respondent is an Advocate and has electric supply connection for his Chambers, where he works in the evening. In his complaint before the District Forum, he alleged that electric supply for his Chambers was disconnected for non-payment of bill, although he had made the payment on due date that is 10.3.1992. His electric supply connection was restored on 17.3.1992. Respondent prayed for Rs.8,000/- loss and Rs.5,000/- for mental agony. In their reply before the District Forum the appellants stated that electric supply was temporarily stopped on 16.3.1992 because there was no evidence on that day that the respondent had made payment of Rs.44/-, the bill for January. Appellants averred that they were justified in temporary stoppage for non-payment of bill. They also affirmed that electric supply was immediately restored without any charge as soon as it was known that bill had been paid. They denied the allegation that Rs.30/- were recovered from the respondent and no receipt was given.

(3.) District Forum after hearing both parties held that appellant had committed deficiency in service and awarded Rs.500/- for mental torture.