JAIN EXPORTS (P) LTD. & ANR. vs UNION OF INDIA & ORS.

The Supreme Court addressed the legality of the import of industrial coconut oil under the Customs Act, specifically Sections 111 and 112, and the Import Policy of 1980-81. The Court held that the Collector of Customs could not take a view contrary to that of the Board and Central Government, emphasizing that lower authorities are bound by the decisions of higher authorities. The Court also clarified that the opportunity for a hearing must be proportionate to the demands of the situation, not merely the quantum of the stake involved.