A.MOHAMMED BASHEER vs STATE OF KERALA .

The Supreme Court held that in cases of public auction, if a substantial part of the subject matter (residual tree growth and firewood) is destroyed due to a force majeure event (fire), the bidder may seek a reduction in the bid amount. The Court distinguished the case from Abdul Rahiman v. Divisional Forest Officer, where a breach of contract was admitted, emphasizing that no concluded contract existed in the present case. Consequently, the Court allowed the appeal, setting aside the High Court's judgment and ruling that the question of damages could not arise.