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175 judgments · newest first · showing 1–175

R.M. YELLATTIversusTHE ASST. EXECUTIVE ENGINEER

2005 INSC 545Appeal(s) allowed

The appellant, a daily‑wage worker appointed on 26‑Nov‑1988, was terminated on 20‑Jun‑1994 and claimed that he had worked continuously for more than 240 days in the preceding year, invoking section 25‑F of the Industrial Disputes Act, 1947. The labour court held him to be a workman, found that he …

SUDHIR G. ANGUR AND ORS.versusM. SANJEEV AND ORS.

2005 INSC 533Dismissed

The respondents, trustees of an educational trust, filed a suit under Section 92 of the Code of Civil Procedure, 1908 seeking cancellation of a lease of trust property and removal of certain trustees, alleging forgery and mismanagement. The appellants contended that the Mysore Religious and …

C.K. JIDHEESHversusUNION OF INDIA AND ORS.

2005 INSC 536Dismissed

The petitioner, who runs a colour photographic film developing and printing business, challenged a Ministry of Finance letter that clarified the Service Tax provisions of the Finance Act, 1994 (as amended by Act 14 of 2001). The letter stated that the taxable value of photography services is the …

SURENDRANAGAR DISTRICT PANCHAYATversusDAHYABHAI AMARSINH

2005 INSC 523Appeal(s) allowed

The Su... District Panchayat terminated the services of workman D. Amarsinh, who claimed he had been employed for over ten years and that his dismissal violated the Industrial Disputes Act, 1947. The Panchayat argued that the workman had not completed the statutory 240 days of service in the twelve …

RAJASTHAN FINANCIAL CORPORATION AND ANR.versusTHE OFFICIAL LIQUIDATOR AND ANR.

2005 INSC 481Disposed off

The Rajasthan Financial Corporation and the Rajasthan State Industrial Development and Investment Corporation, as secured creditors of Vikas Woolen Mills Ltd., sought to sell the company's assets outside the winding‑up proceeding under Section 29 of the State Financial Corporations Act and to …

STATE OF HARYANA AND ORS.versusCHARANJIT SINGH AND ORS. ETC. ETC.

2005 INSC 484Disposed off

The State of Haryana appealed against several High Court orders directing daily‑wage and contract workers (ledger clerks, pump operators, fitters, etc.) to receive the minimum pay of regular Class IV employees from the date of filing their writ petitions. While the appeals were pending, the …

STATE BANK OF INDIAversusK.C. THARAKAN AND ORS.

2005 INSC 472Disposed off

The respondent, a clerk‑cum‑typist of State Bank of India, was caught copying in a bank‑conducted examination and subsequently lodged complaints against the senior officer who acted as invigilator. The bank discharged him on grounds of misconduct and prejudice to the bank's interests, a decision …

STATE OF RAJASTHANversusM/S. NAV BHARAT CONSTRUCTION CO.

2005 INSC 479Disposed off

The State of Rajasthan awarded a construction contract to Nav Bharat Construction Co., which later terminated the contract for delay. The contractor filed multiple claims, of which the district court initially referred only one claim to arbitration; the High Court later ordered all four claims to be …

COMMISSIONER OF CENTRAL EXCISE, NEW DELHIversusM/S. HARI CHAND SHRI GOPAL ETC.

2005 INSC 465Matter referred to larger bench

The Supreme Court examined whether manufacturers of chewing tobacco could claim input relief under exemption Notification No.121/94‑CE when they had not complied with the Chapter X procedure of the Central Excise Rules, 1944. The assessees argued that the intended use of the intermediate product …

M/S. GOPAL ZARDA UDYOG AND ORS.versusCOMMISSIONER OF CENTRAL EXCISE, NEW DELHI

2005 INSC 461Case Partly allowed

The appellants, manufacturers of chewing tobacco, used an intermediate product called "additive mixture" (kimam) in their production process. The Central Excise Department alleged that the kimam was clandestinely manufactured and cleared under sub‑headings 2404.49/2404.40 of the Central Excise …

COMMISSIONER OF SALES TAX, U.P.versusM/S SWADESHI POLYTAX LTD., GHAZIABAD

2005 INSC 454Appeal(s) allowed

Swadeshi Polytax Ltd., a dealer of polyester staples fiber, collected sales tax in excess of the prescribed rate and deposited the amount with the Government Treasury. The dealer sought a refund of the excess amount, but the Trade Tax Tribunal ordered a refund contrary to Section 29-A of the U.P. …

M/S. SHARP INDUSTRIES LTD.versusCOMMISSIONER OF CENTRAL EXCISE, MUMBAI-III

2005 INSC 441Dismissed

Mis. Sharp Industries Ltd. manufactures aluminium foil laminated on one side with polyester film and on the other with polyethylene and sought classification of the product under Tariff Headings 76.07 and 76.12 (aluminium foil "backed"). The Revenue argued that the product should fall under Tariff …

M/S. ANAND NISHIKAWA CO. LTD.versusCOMMISSIONER OF CENTRAL EXCISE, MEERUT

2005 INSC 435Appeal(s) allowed

Anand Nishikawa Co. Ltd., a manufacturer of rubber profiles, classified its products under sub‑heading 4008.29 of the Central Excise Tariff, attracting nil duty. The Revenue re‑classified them under sub‑heading 4016.19, alleging that the company had not disclosed post‑forming processes (notching, …

UNIT TRUST OF INDIAversusRAVINDER KUMAR SHUKLA, ETC. ETC.

2005 INSC 427Dismissed

The Unit Trust of India (UTI), a statutory corporation, issued account‑payee cheques to its unit holders and sent them by registered post. Approximately 1,600 unit holders claimed non‑receipt of cheques worth about Rs 3.35 crore, alleging interception and fraud. The unit holders filed complaints …

AJIT KUMAR NAGversusGENERAL MANAGER, INDIAN OIL CORPORATION LTD. AND ORS.

2005 INSC 425Dismissed

The appellant, a senior officer of Indian Oil Corporation (IOC), was dismissed by the General Manager under clause (vi) of Standing Order 20 after an incident at the refinery hospital where he was alleged to have led a mob and assaulted the Chief Medical Officer. The dismissal was effected without a …

NATWAR PARIKH AND CO. LID.versusSTATE OF KARNATAKA AND ORS.

2005 INSC 393Dismissed

Natwar Parikh & Co. Ltd., a transporter of heavy equipment, used tractors (registered as non‑transport vehicles) coupled with trailers (registered as transport vehicles) to move transformers into Karnataka. The Karnataka taxation authority issued demand notices demanding motor‑vehicle tax on the …

XEROX MODICORP LIMITED.versusSTATE OF KARNATAKA

2005 INSC 376Dismissed

Xerox Modicorp Ltd entered into Full Service Maintenance Agreements (FSMA) and Spares and Service Maintenance Agreements (SSMA) with customers after selling Xerox machines. The dispute concerned whether the supply of spare parts, toners and developers under these agreements amounted to a sale liable …

IMPRESSION PRINTSversusCOMMISSIONER OF CENTRAL EXCISE, DELHI-I

2005 INSC 377Dismissed

Impression Prints, a manufacturer of printed bed sheets, bed covers and pillow cases, claimed a nil duty exemption under Notification No. 65/87‑CE which applies to "made up textile articles" manufactured without the aid of power. The Revenue argued that the colour‑mixing and screen‑printing …

COMMISSIONER OF CENTRAL EXCISE, BHUBANESHWAR-11versusM/S IFGT REFRACTORIES LTD.

2005 INSC 347Disposed off

The Commissioner of Central Excise appealed against a Tribunal order that had allowed IFGT Refractories Ltd. to treat a benefit obtained under the Duty Exemption Scheme as a statutory benefit, not as part of the price for excise duty. IFGT had sold refractories to Visakhapatnam Steel Plant; the …

BHAGWATI DEVELOPERSversusPEERLESS GENERAL FINANCE & INVESTMENT CO. LTD. AND ORS.

2005 INSC 349Dismissed

The appellant, a shareholder of Peerless General Finance & Investment Co. Ltd., challenged the company's resolution to issue bonus shares out of its revaluation reserve. The dispute centered on whether Section 205 of the Companies Act, 1956 and Article 182 of the company's Articles of Association …

M/S. A.B.C. (INDIA) LTD.versusSTATE OF ASSAM AND ANR.

2005 INSC 331Dismissed

The appellant, a transport company, challenged Sections 42, 44 and the later inserted Section 46A of the Assam General Sales Tax Act, 1993, arguing that transporters are not dealers and thus outside the legislature's competence under Entry 54 of List II. The State contended that these provisions are …

EMPLOYEES STATE INSURANCE CORPORATIONversusGNANAMBIGAI MILLS LTD.

2005 INSC 300Appeal(s) allowed

Employees of Gnanambigai Mills Ltd demanded a wage increase, and the dispute was referred to a Special Tribunal. The Tamil Nadu Government, invoking Section 10‑B of the Industrial Disputes Act, issued orders on 15 July 1985 and 29 July 1985 directing the employer to make interim payments to the …

M/S. K. RAHEJA DEVELOPMENT CORPORATIONversusSTATE OF KARNATAKA

2005 INSC 262Dismissed

The appellant, Mis. K. Raheja Development Corporation, entered into development agreements with land owners and sale agreements with prospective purchasers to construct residential and commercial units for consideration. The State of Karnataka assessed turnover tax under the Karnataka Sales Tax Act, …

D. PARRY (INDIA) LTD.versusASSISTANT COMMISSIONER OF COMMERCIAL TAXES, CHENNAI

2005 INSC 247Appeal(s) allowed

E.I.D. Parry (India) Ltd., a sugar manufacturer, purchased sugarcane at a statutory minimum price and an additional price under Clause 5‑A of the Sugarcane (Control) Order, 1966. The additional price could be determined only after the sugar year ended, so the company paid an advance on that price, …

COMMISSIONER OF TRADE TAX, LUCKNOWversusM/S. KANHAI RAM THEKEDAR

2005 INSC 241Dismissed

The Commissioner of Trade Tax of Uttar Pradesh assessed M/s Kanhai Ram Thekedaar for the 1977-78 tax year in 1986, which the assessee fully paid. In 1990 the assessing authority issued a separate order imposing interest at 24% per annum on the unpaid tax, without a prior notice. The assessee …

M/S. SACI ALLIED PRODUCTS LTD., U.P.versusCOMMISSIONER OF CENTRAL EXCISE, MEERUT

2005 INSC 230Appeal(s) allowed

The appellant, SACI Allied Products Ltd., sold detergent powder to independent dealers across India at a uniform price and also sold the same goods to Syndet (SCIL) in Uttar Pradesh at a lower price; Syndet then resold the goods to dealers at a higher price. The Revenue treated Syndet as a related …

DHARAMPAL SATYAPALversusCOMMISSIONER OF CENTRAL EXCISE, NEW DELHI

2005 INSC 220Dismissed

The appellant, a partnership engaged in manufacturing chewing tobacco, produced a compound called "kimam" in unregistered and unlicensed factories and claimed it was an intermediate, non‑marketable product not liable to excise duty. The Revenue Department contended that kimam was a distinct, …

COMMISSIONER OF CENTRAL EXCISE, NEW DELHIversusM/S. HERO HONDA MOTORS

2005 INSC 201Disposed off

The Commissioner of Central Excise appealed against the order of the Customs, Excise & Gold (Control) Appellate Tribunal which had held that the advances received by Hero Honda Motors and the interest earned thereon did not affect the assessable value of its motorcycles. The Tribunal had found that …

COMMISSIONER OF CENTRAL EXCISE, TRICHYversusM/S. GRASIM INDUSTRIES LTD.

2005 INSC 198Disposed off

The Commissioner of Central Excise appealed against a judgment of the Central Excise, Customs and Gold (Control) Appellate Tribunal (CEGAT) which had allowed Mis. Grasim Industries Ltd., a subsidiary, to claim exemption under Notification No. 5/98‑CE. The subsidiary printed on its cement bags the …

COMMISSIONER OF CENTRAL EXCISE, BELGAUMversusM/S. AKAY COSMETICS PVT. LTD.

2005 INSC 176Dismissed

The Commissioner of Central Excise appealed against Mis. Aka Y Cosmetics Pvt. Ltd., which claimed deductions from assessable value for special packing, turnover tax, octroi, and bought‑out items while the assessable value was based on the selling price to a related person under proviso (iii) of Sec. …

COMMISSIONER OF CENTRAL EXCISE, BELGAUMversusM/S. AKAY COSMETIC (P) LTD., HUMBLI

2005 INSC 177Dismissed

The Commissioner of Central Excise appealed against the Tribunal’s order allowing Mis Akay Cosmetics (P) Ltd. to deduct seven categories of expenditure from the assessable value of its instant hair‑colour product for the period 1988‑1993. The Tribunal had remanded the question of whether Akay …

M/S. DABUR (INDIA) LTD.versusCOMMISSIONER OF CENTRAL EXCISE, JAMSHEDPUR

2005 INSC 178Case Partly allowed

The Supreme Court considered two products of Dabur Ltd., ‘Janam Ghunti’ and ‘Lal Tail’, for classification under the Central Excise Tariff Act, 1985. The Tribunal had remitted the classification of ‘Janam Ghunti’ to the original authority, noting that its nature as an aqueous distillate, solution or …

SREE BALAJI RICE MILL, BELLARYversusSTATE OF KARNATAKA

2005 INSC 169Dismissed

The appellant, Sree Balaji Rice Mill, challenged a penalty imposed by the Additional Commissioner under Section 18A of the Karnataka Sales Tax Act, which was levied suo motu in revision proceedings under Section 22A after the Assessing Authority had failed to impose any penalty. The High Court had …

STATE OF TAMIL NADUversusM. KRISHNAPPAN AND ORS.

2005 INSC 157Appeal(s) allowed

The Tamil Nadu Motor Vehicles Taxation Act, 1974 was amended in 1998 to introduce a one‑time "life‑time tax" for vehicles registered on or after 1 July 1998, calculated on a "weight‑cum‑value" index. The tax was challenged as unconstitutional, discriminatory, and beyond the State's power under Entry …

MOHAN DAS N. HEGDE (DEAD) THROUGH LRS.versusSTATE OF KARNATAKA AND ANR.

2005 INSC 158Dismissed

The appellant, the legal representative of the deceased Mohan Das N. Hegde, challenged the Karnataka Motor Vehicle Taxation (Amendment) Act, 1997 which imposed a "life time tax" on vehicles based on their market value, classifying those costing Rs. 6 lakhs or more as a separate class. The appellant …

M/S. NOBLE SYNTHETICS LTD.versusCOLLECTOR OF CENTRAL EXCISE, BOMBAY

2005 INSC 153Dismissed

Noble Synth Ltd, a small-scale manufacturer of acrylic polymers, initially classified its products under SI No.42 of Notification No.53/88 (40% duty) and later claimed a clerical error to re‑classify them as emulsions under SI No.9 (20% duty). The revised classification was approved, but a …

HARI SHANKAR RASTOGIversusSHRI SHAM MANOHAR AND ORS.

2005 INSC 151Appeal(s) allowed

The respondent filed a second appeal before the Delhi High Court, and the appellant raised cross‑objections in that appeal. The respondent later withdrew the appeal, and the High Court dismissed the cross‑objections, holding that they ceased to exist upon withdrawal of the appeal. The appellant …

STATE OF WEST BENGAL AND ORS.versusPURVI COMMUNICATION PVT. LTD. AND ORS.

2005 INSC 146Appeal(s) allowed

The State of West Bengal imposed an entertainment tax on a multi‑system operator (Purvi Communication Pvt. Ltd.) and its sub‑cable operators under clause (ii) of sub‑section (4a) of Section 4A of the West Bengal Entertainment‑cum‑Amusement Tax Act, 1982 (as amended in 1998). The respondents …

M/S. PAHWA CHEMICALS PVT. LTD.versusCOMMISSIONER OF CENTRAL EXCISE, DELHI

2005 INSC 101Dismissed

Mis. Pahwa Chemicals Pvt. Ltd. manufactured textile printing adhesives and claimed exemption under Notification No. 1/1993 (as amended) and Notification No. 16/1997. The Commissioner of Central Excise issued show‑cause notices alleging that the company used a foreign logo, suppressing facts and …

M/S. HINDUSTAN ZINC LTD.versusCOMMISSIONER OF CENTRAL EXCISE, JAIPUR

2005 INSC 102Appeal(s) allowed

The Supreme Court examined whether silver chloride, an intermediate product generated during Hindustan Zinc Ltd.'s zinc manufacturing process, is liable to excise duty. The Court reiterated that excise duty applies only when an item is both manufactured and commercially marketable. While the …

M/S. HINDUSTAN ZINC LTD.versusCOMMISSIONER OF CENTRAL EXCISE, JAIPUR

2005 INSC 103Disposed off

Hindustan Zinc Ltd produced silver chloride, which the Central Excise and Salt Act, 1944 declared as excisable goods. The assessee claimed exemption under Notification No. 217/86-CE dated 2 April 1986. The central issue was whether the exemption could be availed when the department failed to prove …

TRIVENI GLASS LTD., ALLAHABADversusUNION OF INDIA AND ORS.

2005 INSC 89Appeal(s) allowed

Triveni Glass Ltd., a manufacturer of sheet glass, challenged the inclusion of the cost of wooden crates used for packing its glass sheets in the assessable value under the Central Excises and Salt Act, 1944. The Assistant Collector had included the packing cost, whereas the Collector (Appeals) had …

COMMISSIONER OF CENTRAL EXCISE, PUNEversusABHI CHEMICAL & PHARMACEUTICALS PVT. LTD.

2005 INSC 86Dismissed

The Supreme Court examined a dispute between the Central Excise Department and Abhi Chemical & Pharmaceuticals over the correct classification of the product Recovit, a premix containing vitamins, minerals, anti‑oxidants, solvents and stabilisers used exclusively as animal feed. The Revenue argued …

COMMISSIONER OF CENTRAL EXCISE, ALLAHABADversusM/S. GINNI FILAMENTS LTD.

2005 INSC 80Appeal(s) allowed

The Commissioner of Central Excise appealed against the exemption claimed by M/s Ginni Filaments Ltd., a 100% Export Oriented Unit manufacturing filament yarn, for items such as air‑conditioner sheets, tables and chairs. The assessee had obtained a CT‑3 certificate under Notification No. 123/81‑CE …

STATE OF ANDHRA PRADESHversusM/S. KONE ELEVATORS (INDIA) LTD.

2005 INSC 81Appeal(s) allowed

The State of Andhra Pradesh challenged the claim by Mis Kone Elevators (India) Ltd. that its contracts for supplying, installing and commissioning lifts were works‑contracts, allowing deductions of labour charges under Section 5G of the Andhra Pradesh General Sales Tax Act, 1957. The assessee argued …

COMMISSIONER OF CENTRAL EXCISE AND CUSTOMS, AURANGABADversusM/S. CEAT LTD., NASIK

2005 INSC 82Dismissed

The Commissioner of Central Excise and Customs appealed against the classification of rubberised tyre cord fabric manufactured by Mis. CEA T Ltd., arguing that it should be taxed under tariff heading 59.02 rather than 59.06. The appellate court examined the provisions of the Central Excise Act, 1944 …

COMMISSIONER OF CENTRAL EXCISE AND CUSTOMS, AURANGABADversusM/S. CEAT LTD., MUMBAI

2005 INSC 83Appeal(s) allowed

The Central Excise Department appealed against M/s. CEAT Ltd. challenging the classification of dipped tyre cord fabric for excise duty. The Tribunal and the Commissioner had classified the fabric under specific tariff headings, but the Supreme Court examined whether it should fall under Tariff …

COLLECTOR OF CENTRAL EXCISE, PUNEversusM/S. BAJAJ TEMPO LTD.

2005 INSC 65Appeal(s) allowed

The Central Excise Department issued a show‑cause notice to Mis Bajaj Tempo Ltd demanding duty on advertisement expenses that the manufacturer initially incurred and later recovered from its dealers, invoking the extended period of limitation under Section 1IA(b) of the Central Excise Act, 1944. The …

M/S. O.K. PLAY (INDIA) LTD.versusCOMMISSIONER OF CENTRAL EXCISE-II, NEW DELHI

2005 INSC 63Disposed off

OK Play India Ltd., a manufacturer of plastic water tanks and toys, pulverised LDPE and HDPE granules into moulding powder. The Central Excise Department issued show‑cause notices demanding duty for two periods, alleging that the conversion was a "manufacture" and that the powder was an excisable …

M/S. O.K. PLAY (INDIA) LTD.versusCOMMISSIONER OF CENTRAL EXCISE, DELHI-III, GURGAON

2005 INSC 61Dismissed

O.K. Play (India) Ltd., a toy manufacturer, classified activity desks, chairs, play tables, swings, slides, fun fliers, rockers and a play pool as "toys" under Central Excise Tariff Heading 95.03 and cleared them without duty. The Central Excise Department, after approving the classification list, …

COMMISSIONER OF CENTRAL EXCISE, GOA AND CHENNAIversusM.R.F. LTD., CHENNAI

2005 INSC 48Disposed off

M.R.F. Ltd. manufactures tyres and uses grey tyre‑cord fabric that is dipped in a latex solution before being incorporated into tyres. The Commissioner of Central Excise issued show‑cause notices alleging that the dipped tyre‑cord fabric was a separate excisable product falling under Central Excise …

STATE OF BIHAR AND ORS.versusSHREE BAIDYANATH AYURVED BHAWAN (P) LTD. AND ORS.

2005 INSC 24Appeal(s) allowed

The State of Bihar enacted notifications licensing the use, possession and sale of Ayurvedic medicinal preparations containing alcohol, after amending the Bihar Excise Act, 1915 to include such preparations within the definition of "intoxicant". Manufacturers challenged the constitutional validity …

COMMISSIONER OF CENTRAL EXCISEversusM/S. ESWARAN AND SONS ENGINEERS LTD.

2005 INSC 8Appeal(s) allowed

Mis. Eswaran and Sons Engineers Ltd manufactured Minimum Oil Circuit Breakers and had been paying excise duty by classifying them under tariff sub‑heading 8535. The Department issued show‑cause notices in 1993‑94 seeking reclassification to sub‑heading 8537 and the Assistant Collector reclassified …

UNION OF INDIA AND ORS.versusM/S. UPPER GANGES SUGAR AND INDUSTRIES LTD.

2005 INSC 9Appeal(s) allowed

The Union of India (Revenue) appealed against a judgment of the Allahabad High Court that had awarded 10% interest to Mis Upper Ganges Sugar & Industries Ltd. on a rebate of Rs.15,07,791 granted for excess sugar production. The Tax Tribunal had allowed the rebate but declined the assessee's prayer …

COLLECTOR OF CENTRAL EXCISEversusM/S. MATADOR FOAM AND ORS.

2005 INSC 10Appeal(s) allowed

The respondents, manufacturers of vulcanised rubber products cut to the shape of vehicle seats, had classified their goods under Tariff Heading 40.08 and claimed exemption under Notification No. 175/1986. The assessing authority re‑classified the goods under Tariff Heading 94.01, demanded …

M.K. KOTECHAversusCOMMISSIONER OF CENTRAL EXCISE, AURANGABAD

2005 INSC 5Dismissed

M.K. Kotecha, a manufacturer of RCC pipes and collars, cleared the goods to lift‑irrigation schemes between April 1990 and June 1992, claiming they were captively consumed and filing a price‑list under Part VI(a) stating that comparable prices were not known. In reality, the appellant used a …

STATE OF ANDHRA PRADESHversusM/S. A.P. PAPER MILLS LTD.

2005 INSC 1Appeal(s) allowed

A.P. Paper Mills Ltd., a paper manufacturer, bought hardwood from unregistered dealers through agents who were paid a lump sum covering the cost of the wood, transportation charges and the agents' commission. The Commercial Tax Officer assessed sales tax on the total amount paid, invoking Section …

SARABHAI M. CHEMICALSversusCOMMISSIONER OF CENTRAL EXCISE, VADODARA

2004 INSC 716Appeal(s) allowed

Sarabhai M. Chemicals, a bulk‑drug manufacturer, claimed exemption from excise duty under Notification No. 234/86 after obtaining certificates from the Drugs Controller. The Central Excise Department issued three show‑cause notices alleging that a portion of the sorbitol solution and vitamin C was …

M/S. ICHALKARANJI MACHINE CENTRE PVT. LIMITED.versusCOLLECTOR OF CENTRAL EXCISE, PUNE

2004 INSC 707Dismissed

The appellant, a small‑scale manufacturer of gear boxes and related components, opted for the MODVAT scheme in 1986‑87 and 1987‑88 and claimed input credit on iron and steel inputs. After obtaining a classification list, it cleared its finished products at a concessional duty rate under Notification …

COMMISSIONER, TRADE TAX, U.P.versusM/S. D.S.M. GROUP OF INDUSTRIES

2004 INSC 704Disposed off

The appellant, the U.P. Commissioner of Trade Tax, challenged the High Court’s order allowing Mis D.S.M. Group of Industries to claim a trade‑tax exemption under a 1997 Notification. The dispute centered on whether a "unit" for purposes of expansion, modernization or diversification meant each …

COMMISSIONER OF CENTRAL EXCISE, CALCUTTAversusM/S. EMKAY INVESTMENTS (P.) LTD. AND ANR.

2004 INSC 700Appeal(s) allowed

The respondents, Mis Emkay Investments Pvt. Ltd. and M/s Plyking, manufactured plywood under their own brand “Pelican” but also affixed the registered logo “MERINO”, owned by the large‑scale manufacturer M/s Merinoply and Chemicals Ltd., on the same goods. The Commissioner of Central Excise denied …

COLLECTOR OF CUSTOMS, BANGALOREversusM/S. MAESTRO MOTORS LTD. AND ANR.

2004 INSC 699Appeal(s) allowed

The Collector of Customs appealed against the orders of the Customs, Excise and Gold (Control) Appellate Tribunal (CEGAT) which had allowed two importers, Mis. Maruti Udyog Ltd. and Mis. Maestro Motors Ltd., to claim exemption under customs notifications. The Court examined whether goods imported in …

M/S. SHYAM OIL CAKE LTD.versusCOLLECTOR OF CENTRAL EXCISE, JAIPUR

2004 INSC 668Appeal(s) allowed

Mis. Shyam Oil Cake Ltd. bought edible vegetable oil on which excise duty had already been paid, refined it by treatment with alkali/acid, bleaching and deodorisation, and sold the refined oil. The assessee claimed that the refining did not constitute "manufacture" and therefore no excise duty was …

TARAK SINGH AND ANR.versusJYOTI BASU AND ORS.

2004 INSC 658Dismissed

The Supreme Court examined a petition challenging the allotment of a plot of government land in Salt Lake City to retired Calcutta High Court Judge B.P. Banerjee, who had been hearing a writ petition concerning the same area. The petition alleged that the judge used his judicial position to secure …

STATE OF KERALAversusALEX GEORGE AND ANR. ETC.

2004 INSC 656Dismissed

The State of Kerala appealed against the Kerala High Court’s order that the revised plantation‑tax rates introduced by the Kerala Finance Act, 1987 could not be applied during the 1987‑88 financial year. The appellants argued that the amendment to Schedule‑I of the Kerala Plantations Tax Act, 1960, …

STATE OF JHARKHAND AND ORS.versusAMBAY CEMENTS AND ANR.

2004 INSC 649Appeal(s) allowed

The State of Jharkhand appealed against a Jharkhand High Court order that had treated a temporary registration certificate issued to Ambay Cements as the "prior permission" required for sales‑tax exemption under the Bihar Industrial Promotion Policy, 1995. The policy, as amended by Notifications …

HARYANA URBAN DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITYversusSOMA DEVI

2004 INSC 554Disposed off

The Haryana Urban Development Authority (HUDA) allotted a plot to Soma Devi, who paid a substantial sum but was not given possession due to litigation. She filed a consumer complaint seeking a refund; the District Forum ordered a refund with 18% interest, which was upheld by the National Consumer …

UNITED INDIA INSURANCE CO. LTD.versusM/S. HARCHAND RAI CHANDAN LAL

2004 INSC 547Leave Granted & Allowed

The insured, M/s Harchand Raj Chandan Lal, purchased a burglary insurance policy from United India Insurance Co. Ltd. that defined "burglary" as theft involving forcible and violent entry. During the policy period, bags of grain were stolen from the insured's godown without any force or violence, …

HARYANA URBAN DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITYversusSAURABH AGGARWAL

2004 INSC 548Disposed off

The Haryana Urban Development Authority (HUDA) allotted a plot to Saurabh Aggarwal, who paid substantial sums but was not given possession. The District Consumer Forum awarded interest at 18% per annum on the deposits; the State Forum reduced it to 15%, and the National Consumer Disputes Redressal …

DHANRAJversusNEW INDIA ASSURANCE CO. LTD. AND ANR.

2004 INSC 549Leave Granted & Dismissed

The owner of a Jeep, who had a comprehensive motor insurance policy, was injured along with passengers in an accident. The Motor Accident Claims Tribunal ordered both the driver and the insurer to pay compensation to the owner, but the insurer appealed and the High Court held it not liable. The …

DIPESH CHANDAKversusUNION OF INDIA

2004 INSC 529Leave Granted & Disposed off

Dipesh Chandak, an accused in the Bihar fodder scam, was granted a pardon by a Special CBI Judge under Section 306 of the Criminal Procedure Code on the condition that he make a full and complete disclosure of the misappropriation of funds. The Income Tax Department later issued a show‑cause notice …

M/S. PRIYA BLUE INDUSTRIES LTD.versusCOMMISSIONER OF CUSTOMS (PREVENTIVE)

2004 INSC 530Dismissed

Priya Blue Industries Ltd imported a ship, paid customs duty under protest and later filed a claim for refund of Rs 79,64,648 under Section 27 of the Customs Act, 1962. The refund claim was rejected, as were subsequent appeals before the Customs, Excise and Gold (Control) Appellate Tribunal and the …

COMMISSIONER OF CUSTOMS, MUMBAIversusM/S. B. V. JEWELS AND ORS.

2004 INSC 522Case Partly allowed

The Commissioner of Customs issued a show‑cause notice to Mis. B.V. Jewels and its sister concern Mis. B.V. Star alleging shortage of gold, diamonds and capital goods, unauthorised use of duty‑free capital goods and violations of the EXIM policy and Customs notifications. The Customs Tribunal …

COMMISSIONER OF CENTRAL EXCISE, JAIPURversusJ.K. UDAIPUR UDYOG LTD.

2004 INSC 496Appeal(s) allowed

J.K. Udaipur Udyog Ltd., a cement manufacturer, operated its own limestone mine and used explosives for blasting in the mine. It claimed CENVAT credit for the explosives under Rule 57AB of the Central Excise Rules, 1944. The Revenue argued that the explosives were not "inputs" because they were not …

COMMISSIONER, TRANSPORT-CUM-CHAIRMAN AND ORS.versusTAPAN KUMAR BISWAS

2004 INSC 481Appeal(s) allowed

The respondent, Tapan Kumar Biswas, owned a truck whose fitness certificate was cancelled after a severe accident in January 1991. He filed an off‑road intimation for the period 1991 but failed to submit any intimation for 1992‑1995. The Taxing Officer demanded motor‑vehicle tax for those years, …

M/S. ESCORTS LTD.versusCOMMISSIONER OF CENTRAL EXCISE, DELHI

2004 INSC 479Appeal(s) allowed

Escorts Ltd., a tractor manufacturer, paid excise duty on inputs used to produce parts and transferred those parts to another factory of the same company under Notification No. 217/86-CE. The parts were then used to manufacture tractors on which duty was paid. The Commissioner of Central Excise …

WEST BENGAL FREEDOM FIGHTERS' ORGANIZATIONversusUNION OF INDIA AND ORS.

2004 INSC 462Dismissed

The West Bengal Freedom Fighters' Organization filed a writ petition under Article 32 seeking direction for the payment of pensions under the Swatantrata Sainik Samman Pension Scheme, 1980. Applicants were required to submit jail certificates or, in their absence, a Non‑availability of Records …

COMMISSIONER OF CENTRAL EXCISE, BOMBAYversusM/S. RELIANCE INDUSTRIES LTD.

2004 INSC 457Disposed off

The Commissioner of Central Excise, Bombay issued a show‑cause notice to M/s Reliance Industries Ltd. alleging short payment of excise duty on polyester filament yarn (POY) that was produced on bobbins of one kilogram or less and removed without duty payment. The Collector confirmed a demand of over …

COMMISSIONER OF CENTRAL EXCISE, NEW DELHIversusM/S. MODI ALKALIES AND CHEMICALS LTD.

2004 INSC 456Appeal(s) allowed

The Commissioner of Central Excise held that Modi Alkalies & Chemicals Ltd. (MACL) had created three front companies to evade excise duty on hydrogen gas, treating them as dummies and imposing duty, penalty and confiscation. The Central Excise and Gold (Control) Appellate Tribunal (CEGAT) overturned …

DELHI TRANSPORT CORPORATIONversusSARDAR SINGH

2004 INSC 442Appeal(s) allowed

The Delhi Transport Corporation (DTC) dismissed several conductors, including Sardar Singh, for long periods of unauthorized absence, invoking Paragraphs 4(ii) and 19(h) of the Delhi Road Transport Authority (Conditions of Appointment and Service) Regulations, 1952. The employees sought approval of …

DELHI TRANSPORT CORPORATIONversusSHYAM LAL

2004 INSC 444Case Partly allowed

The respondent, Shyam Lal, a conductor for Delhi Transport Corporation, was found to have collected fare without issuing tickets and, after departmental proceedings, admitted his guilt and was removed from service. The employer sought approval of the removal under Section 33(2)(b) of the Industrial …

M/S. GAURAV DISTRIBUTORS (P) LTD.versusCOMMISSIONER OF CUSTOMS, NEW DELHI

2004 INSC 437Dismissed

M/s. Gaurav Distributors (P) Ltd. purchased ball bearings that had been exported by SKF Bearing (I) Ltd. under export bonds and re‑imported them in March 1995. The appellant claimed exemption from customs duty under the proviso to Section 20 of the Customs Act, 1962, arguing that the phrase "goods …

ALLAHABAD DISTRICT CO-OPERATIVE BANK LTD., ALLAHABADversusVIDHYA VARIDH MISHRA

2004 INSC 440Leave Granted & Allowed

The respondent, a clerk‑cum‑cashier of Allahabad District Co‑operative Bank, was suspended and subjected to a disciplinary inquiry for alleged embezzlement. The inquiry officer recommended termination, but the Administrative Committee initially proposed a lesser punishment of withholding two …

SHRI S.K. ZUTSHI AND ANR.versusSHRI BIMAL DEBNATH AND ANR.

2004 INSC 430Dismissed

The complainant alleged that Border Security Force personnel, including the appellants, entered his shop, demanded Rs 10,000 as illegal gratification, ransacked the premises, seized goods and documents, and threatened him, constituting offences under IPC sections 395, 447 and 506. The appellants …

M/S. NAHAR INDUSTRIAL ENTERPRISES LTD. AND ORS.versusUNION OF INDIA AND ORS.

2004 INSC 434Appeal(s) allowed

The appellants, 100% Export Oriented Undertakings (EOUs) manufacturing cotton yarn from indigenous raw material, were required to pay Basic Excise Duty (BED) under the Central Excise Act, 1944 and Additional Excise Duty (AED) under the Additional Duties of Excise (Textiles and Textile Articles) Act, …

THE STATE OF KERALA ETC. ETC.versusM/S. ARYA REFRIGERATION & A/C CO. ETC. ETC.

2004 INSC 414Disposed off

The State of Kerala entered into a contract with Mis Arya Refrigeration & A/C Co. for supplying and erecting a cold‑storage plant, which could not be installed because the State failed to construct the requisite building. The dispute was referred to arbitration; the arbitrator awarded a sum to the …

FARGO FREIGHT LTD.versusTHE COMMODITIES EXCHANGE CORPORATION AND ORS.

2004 INSC 417Disposed off

Fargo Freight Ltd., the owner of a vessel, chartered it to the first respondent and claimed freight and demurrage. Because RBI permission was required, the first respondent issued an irrevocable standby Letter of Credit (L/C) through the third respondent (the issuing bank). A dispute arose over …

STATE OF ANDHRA PRADESHversusR. JEEVARATNAM

2004 INSC 412Appeal(s) allowed

The respondent, then Secretary of Visakhapatnam Port Trust, was alleged to have demanded and received a bribe to clear a tender file in favour of a company. The complainant reported the demand to the CBI, which laid a trap; the respondent was caught exiting a hotel room with marked currency. The …

MAULAVI HUSSEIN HAJI ABRAHAM UMARIversusSTATE OF GUJARAT AND ANR.

2004 INSC 409Dismissed

The appellant, Maulavi Hussein Haji Abraham Umari, was arrested in connection with a train attack and initially placed in police custody. An application under Section 49(2) of the Prevention of Terrorism Act, 2002 (POTA) was filed to extend his police remand beyond the statutory 30‑day limit, and …

STATE OF PUNJABversusKASTURI LAL AND ORS.

2004 INSC 405Leave Granted & Allowed

The State of Punjab appealed against a High Court order that quashed charges framed under Section 7(1)(a)(ii) of the Essential Commodities Act, 1955 against the directors of Mis. Sangrur Vanaspati Mills Ltd., leaving only the production manager to stand trial for adulterating vegetable oil. The …

STATE OF ANDHRA PRADESHversusGOLOCONDA LINGA SWAMY AND ANR.

2004 INSC 404Disposed off

The State of Andhra Pradesh filed FIRs under the Andhra Pradesh Excise Act, 1968 and the Prohibition Act, 1995 alleging that the accused had transported or stored black jaggery/molasses for the manufacture of illicit liquor. The accused obtained quashing of the FIRs from the Andhra Pradesh High …

COLLECTOR OF CENTRAL EXCISE, CALCUTTAversusM/S ALNOORI TOBACCO PRODUCTS AND ANR.

2004 INSC 397Disposed off

The respondents, Alnoori Tobacco Products, were engaged in manufacturing tobacco powder and were served with show‑cause notices alleging that the product fell under tariff sub‑heading 2404.90 (manufactured tobacco) of the Central Excise Tariff Act, 1985. Their appeals before the Collector of Central …

MOHD. EKRAM KHAN AND SONSversusCOMMISSIONER OF TRADE TAX, U.P., LUCKNOW

2004 INSC 398Dismissed

The appellant, an agent of Mahindra & Mahindra, supplied motor parts to vehicle customers in Uttar Pradesh under a warranty agreement and received payment from the manufacturer. The assessing authority treated the payments as consideration for a sale under Section 2(h) of the Uttar Pradesh Trade Tax …

COMMISSIONER OF CUSTOMS, KOLKATAversusM/S. RUPA AND CO. LTD.

2004 INSC 399Disposed off

The respondents, Rupa & Co. Ltd., are manufacturers of textile garments who imported various machines for fabric processing, inspection, knitting and dyeing under the Export Promotion Capital Goods (EPCG) Scheme and claimed a 100% customs duty exemption under Notification No. 29/97-Cus. The Revenue …

MILMENT OFTHO INDUSTRIES AND ORS.versusALLERGAN INC.

2004 INSC 374Disposed off

Allergan Inc., a multinational pharmaceutical company, sued Milment oftho Industries for passing off over the mark "OCUFLOX" used on eye‑care medicines, claiming it was the first global user of the mark since 1992. The Calcutta High Court initially granted an interim injunction to Allergan, later …

MAHANAGAR TELEPHONE NIGAM LTD.versusCHAIRMAN, CENTRAL BOARD DIRECT TAXES AND ANR.

2004 INSC 375Leave Granted & Disposed off

Mahanagar Telephone Nigam Ltd. (MTNL) received a show‑cause notice from the Central Board of Direct Taxes and approached the Delhi High Court by filing a writ petition, despite a High Power Committee (HPC) having advised it to await an appealable order and not to approach the court. The Supreme …

MEHER RUSI DALALversusUNION OF INDIA AND ORS.

2004 INSC 360Disposed off

The Union of India (respondent) had taken over property for war purposes and later agreed to acquire it, resulting in a compensation award. The Union later sought to withdraw from the acquisition and to set aside the award, which was denied, and subsequently applied for apportionment of its share …

NEW INDIA ASSURANCE CO. LTD.versusKIRAN SINGH AND ORS.

2004 INSC 321Dismissed

An Assistant Engineer died in a bus accident; his wife claimed compensation from New India Assurance, the insurer of the vehicle. The Tribunal awarded Rs 6,25,000 with a 43‑multiplier and 12% interest, relying on a carbon copy of the policy produced by the bank manager. The High Court upheld the …

M/S. ICPA HEALTH PRODUCTS (P) LTD.versusCOMMISSIONER OF CENTRAL EXCISE, VADODARA

2004 INSC 291Appeal(s) allowed

ICPA Health Products Ltd. manufactures three surgical disinfectant products—Hexiprev, Hexiscrub (Surgiscrub) and Haxiaque—and initially classified them under Tariff Item 3003.10 (patent or proprietary medicaments) under the Central Excise Tariff Act, 1985. The Commissioner of Central Excise issued …

NARESH KUMAR AND ANR.versusUNION OF INDIA AND ORS.

2004 INSC 237Disposed off

The petitioners, former Indian Navy officers, were issued Certificates of Service (COS) under the now‑repealed Section 80 of the Merchant Shipping Act, 1958 and later employed in the merchant navy. After India ratified the STCW Convention (1978, amended 1995), the government issued Merchant Shipping …

COMMISSIONER OF CENTRAL EXCISE, JAIPURversusM/S. HINDUSTAN ZINC LTD.

2004 INSC 208Appeal(s) allowed

The respondents, Hindustan Zinc Ltd., manufacture zinc by electrolysis using lead and aluminium sheets fitted with headers to form anodes and cathodes. The Revenue issued show‑cause notices for excise duty and penalty, asserting that the fitted sheets constitute a new product—electrodes—liable to …

GHAZIABAD DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITYversusBALBIR SINGH

2004 INSC 182

The Supreme Court examined a batch of appeals arising from orders of the National Consumer Disputes Redressal Commission (NCDRC) that uniformly awarded interest at 18% per annum in cases of deficiency of service by development authorities. The Court held that the Consumer Protection Act, 1986 has a …

IPCA LABORATORY LTD.versusDEPUTY COMMISSIONER OF INCOME TAX, MUMBAI

2004 INSC 161Dismissed

IPCA Laboratory Ltd., an export house, exported self‑manufactured goods (earning a profit of Rs 3.78 crore) and trading goods (incurring a loss of Rs 6.86 crore). It claimed a deduction under Section 80HHC of the Income Tax Act for the profit, having issued disclaimer certificates to supporting …

MR. PRAMOD MALHOTRA AND ORS.versusUNION OF INDIA AND ORS.

2004 INSC 137Dismissed

Sikkim Banking Limited (SBL) applied for a banking licence under the Banking Regulation Act, 1987 but the RBI neither granted a licence nor prohibited it from operating, later allowing SBL to open a Delhi branch. Depositors placed funds in that branch, after which SBL suffered massive losses and …

K.ANBAZHAGANversusSUPERINTENDENT OF POLICE, CHENNAI AND ORS.

2004 INSC 118Dismissed

The petitioners sought to modify a Supreme Court order that had transferred criminal proceedings against them from Tamil Nadu to Karnataka under Section 406 of the Code of Criminal Procedure, 1973. They argued that the prevailing tension between Tamil Nadu and Karnataka over the Cauvery water …

THE KERALA STATE CO-OPERATIVE MARKETING FEDERATIONversusSTATE BANK OF INDIA AND ORS.

2004 INSC 70Disposed off

The Kerala State Co‑operative Marketing Federation (appellant) received a cheque for Rs 1,00,000 which was stolen, altered and used to open a fictitious account with State Bank of India (respondent No.1). The fraudster deposited the cheque, withdrew Rs 50,000 and then disappeared. The bank claimed …

JOSE PHILIP MAMPILLILversusM/S. PREMIER AUTOMOBILES LTD. AND ANR.

2004 INSC 60Disposed off

The appellant purchased a new diesel car from Premier Automobiles Ltd. through its dealer, but upon delivery the vehicle had paint defects and faulty piston rings. Despite repeated repairs, the defects persisted, leading the appellant to file a complaint before the District Consumer Dispute …

ARUN PASWAN, S.I.versusSTATE OF BIHAR AND ORS.

2003 INSC 710Dismissed

The District and Sessions Judge of Sasaram ordered a police officer, S.I. Arun Paswan, to produce a case diary, which he failed to do, leading to a show‑cause notice under Section 349 CrPC. While the judge was hearing another matter, a group of police officers in plain clothes and uniform shouted …

K. ANBAZHAGANversusTHE SUPERINTENDENT OF POLICE AND ORS. ETC.

2003 INSC 642Case Allowed

The petitioners, led by K. Anbazhagan, sought transfer of two corruption cases against J. Jayalalitha and others from the Special Court in Chennai to a court in Karnataka, alleging that the trial was being subverted by the recall of witnesses, the dispensing of personal appearance of the accused, …

NEW INDIA ASSURANCE CO. LTD.versusA.K. SAXENA

2003 INSC 619Appeal(s) allowed

Advocate A.K. Saxena, who was on the panel of New India Assurance Co., was asked to return client files pending payment of his fees. He applied to the Allahabad High Court for discharge as counsel and for an order directing the company to pay his full fees before returning the papers. The High Court …

UNITED BANK OF INDIAversusRAMDAS MAHADEO PRASHAD AND ORS.

2003 INSC 599Appeal(s) allowed

The respondents filed a suit against United Bank of India concerning an underwriting commitment. While the suit was pending, the parties executed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) on 18 May 1994 that required the respondents to withdraw the suit, pay a guarantee liability of Rs. 2.33 lakhs, and …

DELHI ADMINISTRATION AND ORS.versusMADAN LAL NANGIA AND ORS.

2003 INSC 531Disposed off

The Supreme Court examined the acquisition of several parcels of land in Delhi that were claimed to be evacuee properties. The petitioners argued that the acquisition, made under the Section 4 notification of 23 January 1965, was invalid because earlier notifications had excluded evacuee lands and …

M.NARAYANDASversusSTATE OF KARNATAKA AND ORS.

2003 INSC 499Appeal(s) allowed

M. Narayandas, the owner of a plot of land, filed a suit for permanent injunction after his sister's family attempted to transfer the land based on documents he alleged were forged. He lodged a criminal complaint alleging forgery, leading to an FIR under IPC sections 468, 470, 471 and 120B. The …

THE NEW INDIA ASSURANCE CO. LTD.versusC. PADMA AND ANR.

2003 INSC 475Dismissed

The respondents were injured in a motor accident on 18 February 1989 and filed a claim petition for compensation on 2 November 1995. The appellant, New India Assurance Co., argued that the claim was barred by the six‑month limitation prescribed in Section 166(3) of the Motor Vehicles Act, 1988 (as …

THIRUMALA TIRUPATI DEVASTHANAMS AND ANR.versusTHALLAPPAKA ANANTHACHARYULU AND ORS.

2003 INSC 465Disposed off

The Devasthanam of Tirumala (plaintiff) filed a civil suit seeking declaration of ownership of 28.58 acres and also appealed a patta grant to the Tallapaka inamdars under the Andhra Pradesh Inams (Abolition and Conversion into Ryotwari) Act, 1956. The Tallapaka respondents obtained two writs of …

NATIONAL HIGHWAY AUTHORITY OF INDIAversusM/S. GANGA ENTERPRISES AND ANR.

2003 INSC 434Appeal(s) allowed

The National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) issued a tender for toll collection requiring a bid security of Rs 50 lakh in the form of an on‑demand bank guarantee, which could be forfeited if the bidder withdrew his bid within the 120‑day validity period. Ganga Enterprises submitted the bid, …

DELHI DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITYversusMRS. VIJAYA C. GURSHANEY AND ANR.

2003 INSC 422Appeal(s) allowed

Ram Ohan, an allottee of a plot under the Delhi Development Authority (DDA), died without constructing on the land and left a will in favour of a non‑blood relative, Mrs. Vijaya C. Gurshane. She obtained a Letter of Administration from the District Judge based on the will and applied to the DDA for …

STATE OF MAHARASHTRA AND ORS.versusMAIMUMA BANU AND ORS.

2003 INSC 366Case Partly allowed

The State of Maharashtra acquired lands of the respondents by private negotiations before a Section‑4 notification under the Land Acquisition Act, 1894 and later issued a Section‑6 notification. Government resolutions stipulated payment of rental compensation to the title‑holders, but the …

STATE THROUGH SPECIAL CELL, NEW DELHIversusNAVJOT SANDHU @ AFSHAN GURU AND ORS.

2003 INSC 290Appeal(s) allowed

The case arose from the Parliament attack of 2001, after which the accused were charged under various statutes including the Prevention of Terrorism Act, 2002 (POTA). While the trial was pending, the accused sought an interlocutory order from the Special Judge to exclude intercepted telephone …

COMMISSIONER OF CENTRAL EXCISE, CALCUTTAversusM/S. SHARMA CHEMICAL WORKS

2003 INSC 267Dismissed

The case concerned the classification of "Banphool Oil" under the Central Excise Tariff Act, 1985. The Revenue argued that the product was a perfumed hair oil (Tariff Item 3305.10) or a toilet preparation, while the assessee contended it was an Ayurvedic medicament (Tariff Item 3003.30). The …

COMMISSIONER OF CENTRAL EXCISE, CALCUTTA-IVversusM/S. PANDIT D.P. SHARMA

2003 INSC 268Dismissed

M/s Pandit D.P. Sharma, the manufacturer of "Himtaj oil", classified the product as an Ayurvedic medicine under tariff sub‑heading 3003.30 of the Central Excise and Salt Act, 1944. The Revenue issued a show‑cause notice seeking re‑classification as a perfumed hair oil under sub‑heading 3305.10, and …

COMMISSIONER OF CENTRAL EXCISE, CHANDIGARH-IIversusM/S STEEL STRIPS LTD. ETC.

2003 INSC 250Disposed off

Mis Steel Strips Ltd. manufactured cold rolled steel strips from hot rolled strips and claimed a refund of excise duty paid on the cold rolled strips. The revenue department rejected the claim, asserting that hot and cold rolled strips are distinct excisable commodities under separate tariff …

COMMISSIONER OF CENTRAL EXCISE, MUMBAI-IIIversusM/S I.S.P. INDUSTRIES LTD.

2003 INSC 211Dismissed

The Commissioner of Central Excise appealed against orders of the Central Excise and Gold (Control) Appellate Tribunal that had held that notional interest on interest‑free advances taken by manufacturers from buyers could not be added to the assessable value of excisable goods. The revenue argued …

THE STATE OF MAHARASHTRAversusDR. PRAFUL B. DESAI AND ANR.

2003 INSC 202Disposed off

The State of Maharashtra filed a criminal complaint under IPC sections 338, 109 and 114 alleging medical negligence by Dr. Praful B. Desai and Dr. A.K. Mukherjee, leading to the death of the complainant's wife. The trial court permitted the testimony of a US doctor, Dr. Greenberg, via …

D.P. LONversusCOLLECTOR OF CENTRAL EXCISE AND CUSTOMS

2003 INSC 181Dismissed

The appellant, a yarn manufacturing firm, produced "Taspa" (fancy) yarn by a doubling/multifolding process and claimed exemption from excise duty under notifications for doubled yarns. The Collector of Central Excise issued a show‑cause notice, demanded duty and imposed a penalty, classifying the …

COMMISSIONER OF CENTRAL EXCISEversusM/S M.P.V. & ENGG. INDUSTRIES

2003 INSC 164Dismissed

The respondent, a manufacturer of cooling towers, applied for registration as a small‑scale industry on 3 December 1986 but the application remained pending. A second application was filed in February 1988 and permanent registration was granted on 31 March 1988. The dispute centred on whether the …

UNITED INDIA INSURANCE COMPANY LTD.versusLEHRU AND ORS.

2003 INSC 133Dismissed

The Supreme Court examined an appeal by United India Insurance Company Ltd, which sought to avoid liability for a motor accident on the ground that the driver’s licence was allegedly fake. The accident involved a vehicle driven by Janu, who presented a licence that appeared genuine; the insurer …

M/S CADILA LABORATORIES PVT. LTD.versusC.C.E. VADODARA

2003 INSC 80Appeal(s) allowed

The Supreme Court examined whether excise duty was payable on intermediate pharmaceutical products manufactured by Cadila Laboratories and whether the Revenue could invoke the extended limitation period under Section 11‑A of the Central Excise and Salt Act, 1944. The appellants argued that the …

ANIL KUMARversusSTATE OF U.P.

2003 INSC 82Dismissed

The appellant, Anil Kumar, was convicted under various IPC sections for assault and murder after a violent incident in which the victim's brother and other family members were attacked. The appellant challenged the conviction on four grounds: that the FIR scribe, who was a relative of the …

CENTRAL BUREAU OF INVESTIGATIONversusASHIQ HUSSAIN FAKTOO AND ORS.

2003 INSC 49Appeal(s) allowed

The Central Bureau of Investigation appealed against the acquittal of three accused who were charged under Section 3 of the Terrorist and Disruptive Activities (Prevention) Act, 1987 and Sections 302 and 120B of the Indian Penal Code for the kidnapping and murder of H.N. Wanchoo. The only evidence …

STATE OF KARNATAKAversusMOHAMED NAZEER @ BABU

2003 INSC 35Disposed off

The State of Karnataka prosecuted Mohamed Nazeer for killing a man after assaulting him with a knee to the private parts, causing instant death. Eye‑witnesses and a doctor testified that the accused threatened the victim, kicked him, and that death resulted from neurogenic shock due to testicular …

L.T.C. LTD.versusCOLLECTOR OF CENTRAL EXCISE, PATNA

2002 INSC 527Dismissed

I.T.C. Ltd., a cigarette manufacturer, was served with show‑cause notices for removing 20 sticks from each machine daily as samples for quality‑control testing, without paying excise duty. The company argued that excise duty should not apply because the cigarettes were not yet packed, a step it …

A.L. RANJANEversusRAVINDRA ISHWARDAS SETHNA AND ORS.

2002 INSC 491Dismissed

The appellant, A.L. Ranjane, operated a tea stall on a permanent structure embedded in a public street adjacent to the building of respondent R.J. Sethna. The respondent sued for declaration, mandatory and permanent injunctions to remove the structure, alleging encroachment, nuisance, fire and …

SAVITRI SAHAYversusSACHIDANAND PRASAD

2002 INSC 455Appeal(s) allowed

The landlord, Savitri Sahay, filed an eviction suit under the Bihar Buildings (Lease, Rent and Eviction) Act, 1982, claiming a bona‑fide requirement for a ground‑floor flat that was contiguous to her ancestral house and faced an open piece of land. During the pendency of the suit three other flats …

WARYAM SINGHversusBALDEV SINGH

2002 INSC 457Dismissed

The landlord let a shop with a verandah to the tenant, who later enclosed the verandah and installed a rolling shutter without the landlord's consent. The landlord sought eviction under Section 13(2)(iii) of the East Punjab Urban Rent Restriction Act, 1949, alleging that the alteration materially …

THE TATA IRON & STEEL CO. LTD.versusCOLLECTOR OF CENTRAL EXCISE, JAMSHEDPUR

2002 INSC 438Appeal(s) allowed

The Tata Iron & Steel Co. Ltd. and other steel manufacturers were required by the Joint Plant Committee (JPC) and Steel Priority Committee (SPC) to add certain elements to the ex‑works price of iron and steel for funds such as the Steel Development Fund. The Central Excise Department contended that …

M/S. ESCORTS JCB LTD.versusCOMMISSIONER OF CENTRAL EXCISE, DELHI-II

2002 INSC 439

Escorts JCB Ltd., a manufacturer of excavators, sold its goods on an ex‑works basis at its Ballabgarh factory, handing over possession to the buyer's carrier. The Central Excise authorities, after a factory visit, observed that transit‑insurance and freight charges were not included in the declared …

UNION OF INDIA AND ORS.versusONKAR S. KANWAR AND ORS.

2002 INSC 411Disposed off

The Central Excise Commissioners issued show‑cause notices to Apollo Tyres Ltd. and its directors/officers for alleged duty evasion and imposed penalties. Both the company and the officers appealed before the Customs, Excise and Gold (Control) Appellate Tribunal, and while the appeals were pending, …

NUTAN KUMAR AND ORS.versusIIND ADDITIONAL DISTRICT JUDGE AND ORS.

2002 INSC 412Disposed off

The appellant landlord filed an ejectment suit under the Uttar Pradesh Urban Buildings (Regulation of Letting, Rent and Eviction) Act, 1972 for non‑payment of rent. The trial court dismissed the suit, holding that the lease was entered into in contravention of the Act and therefore void. The …

STANDARD PENCILS (P) LTD. ETC. ETC.versusCOLLECTOR OF CENTRAL EXCISE, MADRAS

2002 INSC 400Appeal(s) allowed

Standard Pencils Ltd., a manufacturer of Kum‑Kum pencils, sought exemption from excise duty under Notification 235/1986‑CE, which exempts goods described as "Kum‑Kum" under sub‑heading 3307.90 of the Central Excise Tariff Act, 1985. The Assistant Collector and the Collector (Appeals) classified the …

COLLECTOR OF CENTRAL EXCISE, AHMEDABADversusL.T.E.C. (P) LTD., BOMBAY

2002 INSC 398Appeal(s) allowed

The assessee, I.T.E.C. (P) Ltd., sold projectors to Mis. International Talkie Equipment Co. Pvt. Ltd. and claimed exemption under Notification 71178. The Revenue issued a notice under Section 4(4)(c) of the Central Excise Act, alleging Mis. International was a "related person" and demanded excise …

UNION OF INDIA AND ORS.versusSONIC ELECTROCHEM (P) LTD. AND ANR.

2002 INSC 395Dismissed

The Supreme Court heard appeals by the Union of India against the Madhya Pradesh High Court’s order quashing excise duty notices served on Sonic Electrochem Ltd. for the plastic body of its electro‑mosquito repellent (EMR) and a "fragrant mat". The issues were whether the plastic body constituted …

C.V. RAJENDRAN AND ANR.versusN.M. MUHAMMED KUNHI

2002 INSC 384Dismissed

The tenants (appellants) challenged a second eviction petition filed by the landlord (respondent) under Section 15(3) of the Kerala Buildings (Lease and Rent Control) Act, 1965, claiming the landlord’s bona‑fide requirement for his son. An earlier appellate authority had held that the second …

TALUK LAND BOARD AND ORS.versusCYRIAC THOMAS AND ORS.

2002 INSC 373Dismissed

The Supreme Court examined an appeal by the Taluk Land Board against a Kerala High Court order that accepted sale deeds executed by the sisters of Cyriac Thomas, the declarant. The central question was whether the sisters, as daughters of the deceased Elanjikkal Cyriac, possessed a legal share in …

SODANI CEMENT AND CHEMICALS (P) LTD.versusCOLLECTOR OF CENTRAL EXCISE, JAIPUR

2002 INSC 374Appeal(s) allowed

Sodani Cement and Chemicals (P) Ltd., a small‑scale industry (SSI) manufacturing ordinary Portland cement, sought the benefit of Notification No. 23/1989‑CE which exempts cement produced in a vertical shaft kiln with a licensed capacity not exceeding 200 tonnes per day from the normal excise duty of …

COLLECTOR OF CENTRAL EXCISE, NEW DELHIversusHINDUSTAN SANITARYWARE & INDUSTRIES

2002 INSC 375Dismissed

The dispute centered on whether plaster of paris used to make moulds for sanitaryware qualifies as an "input" eligible for exemption under Notification No. 217/86, as amended by Notification No. 82/87, under the Central Excise Rules. Hindustan Sanitaryware & Industries, the respondent, claimed the …

MUTHU GOUNDERversusAMMAYEE AMMAL

2002 INSC 292Appeal(s) allowed

The appellant filed a second appeal under Section 100 of the Code of Civil Procedure, 1908, challenging a decree of a subordinate court. The Madras High Court disposed of the appeal without framing any substantial question of law, despite the statutory requirement that the High Court must be …

PRADIP CHANDRA PARIJA AND ORS.versusPRAMOD CHANDRA PATANAIK AND ORS.

2001 INSC 590Directions issued

The case arose when a two‑judge bench of the Supreme Court, disagreeing with a prior three‑judge decision in Nityananda Kar v. State of Orissa, ordered that the matter be placed before a five‑judge bench. The petitioners challenged whether such a referral was permissible under the Constitution and …

KLSAN Y ASHWANT DHIRADEversusSONABAI BAPPU LOHAR AND ORS.

2001 INSC 200Dismissed

The appellant, a tenant, sought restoration of possession of agricultural land after the landlord's widow took possession following a termination under Section 31 of the Bombay Tenancy and Agricultural Lands Act, 1948. The widow leased the land to another tenant within eleven years and eleven months …

RITONA CONSULTANCY PVT. LTD. AND ORS. ETE. ETC.versusLOHIA JUTE PRESS AND ORS. ETC.

2001 INSC 69Disposed off

Two related suits were filed in the Calcutta High Court concerning a government contract for the preparation of photo identity cards. The plaintiff, Lohia Jute Press, sued its sub‑contractors for non‑performance, while the sub‑contractors filed counter‑suits seeking return of pledged shares and …

J.K. SYNTHETICSversusRAJASTHAN TRADE UNION KENDRA AND ORS.

2000 INSC 591Disposed off

JK Synthtics Ltd. laid off its workers in 1983 due to a total power cut and subsequently terminated 1,164 workers and retrenched 1,201 workers, prompting the Rajasthan Trade Union Kendra to challenge the terminations before the High Court and an Industrial Tribunal. The Tribunal, after a secret …

SKYPAK COURIERS LTD. ETC. ETC.versusTATA CHEMICALS LTD. ETC. ETC.

2000 INSC 320

The Supreme Court examined the practice of the National Consumer Disputes Redressal Commission (NCDRC) referring consumer disputes to a retired judge for "consensual adjudication" and then treating the award as its own order. It held that the Consumer Protection Act, 1986 does not empower the …

KAPUS EKADHIKAR KARMACHARI SANGHversusSTATE OF MAHARASHTRA AND ANR

2000 INSC 210Dismissed

The Kapus Ekadhikar Karmachari Sangh filed a writ petition seeking to quash an award passed by the Industrial Court under the Maharashtra Raw Cotton (Procurement, Processing and Marketing) Act, 1971. The Bombay High Court dismissed the petition, relying on the Supreme Court’s decision in Maharashtra …