IN RE: HARIJAI SINGH & ANR. vs IN RE: VIJAY KUMAR

The Supreme Court addressed the misuse of discretionary powers by the Petroleum Ministry in the allotment of retail outlets for petroleum products, emphasizing that such powers should be exercised transparently and in accordance with the law. The Court held that the allotments made to relatives of high-ranking officials, including the Prime Minister, were arbitrary and violated principles of fairness and equality under Article 14 of the Constitution. The Court ordered the government to disclose all discretionary allotments made, reinforcing the need for accountability in public office.