Supreme Court of India · 2004-01-21
MUNICIPAL CORPORATION, AMRITSAR vs SENIOR SUPDT., POST OFFICES
- Citation / case number
- SC 2001/18073
- Court
- Supreme Court of India
- Petitioner
- MUNICIPAL CORPORATION, AMRITSAR
- Respondent
- SENIOR SUPDT., POST OFFICES
- Author
- SEMA
- Bench
- H.K. SEMA S.N. VARIAVA
Judgment text excerpt
The Supreme Court held that the demand for service charges by the Municipal Corporation against the Central Government's Posts and Telegraphs Department is not a tax but a legitimate service charge for services rendered, thus not violating Article 285(1) of the Constitution. The Court clarified that properties owned by the Central Government are not exempt from service charges, as these charges are distinct from taxes. The appeal by the Municipal Corporation was allowed, overturning the High Court's decision that had set aside the demand notice.