WESTERN U.P. ELECTRIC POWER & SUPPLYCOMPANY LTD. vs STATE OF U.P. & ANR.

The Supreme Court held that the order of the State Government under Section 3(2)(e)(ii) of the Indian Electricity Act, 1910, directing the Electricity Board to supply energy directly to a factory, did not violate Article 14 of the Constitution as there was no evidence of discrimination among similarly situated consumers. The Court clarified that 'public interest' under the Act is subject to the satisfaction of the State Government and that the order did not amount to compulsory acquisition of property without compensation. The principles of natural justice were deemed satisfied as the appellant was given an opportunity to present its case.