BIHAR STATE ELECTRICITY BOARD, PATNA vs M/S ALLIED REFRACTORIES PVT. LTD. .

The Supreme Court held that under Section 49 of the Electricity Supply Act, consumers must apply for proportionate reduction of minimum guaranteed charges due to non-supply of electricity. The Court found that the respondents failed to make such an application before approaching the High Court, which was not justified in granting relief. Consequently, the Court set aside the High Court's order and allowed the appeal, permitting the respondents to apply for reduction as per the statute.