RANGASWAMI, THE TEXTILE COMMISSIONER & ORS vs SUGAR TEXTILE MILLS (P) LTD. & ANOTHER

The Supreme Court held that under Section 3 of the Essential Supplies (Temporary Powers) Act, 1946, the Textile Commissioner must specify the period for which any directions issued to manufacturers regarding production shall remain operative. The Court clarified that the term 'may' in this context should be interpreted as 'must', establishing that discretion granted to public authorities is coupled with an obligation to act. The judgment reinforces the necessity for periodic review of such directions to ensure compliance and relevance.