HARYANA URBAN DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY vs RAJ RANI

The Supreme Court held that interest at the rate of 18% per annum cannot be uniformly granted in consumer disputes, emphasizing that each case must be evaluated based on its specific facts. The Court reiterated the need for Consumer Forums to establish misfeasance in public office or deficiency in service before awarding damages. The National Commission's order granting 18% interest was set aside, and it was directed that TDS deducted from the interest amount be refunded to the respondent with interest at 12% per annum. The Court clarified that this ruling should not serve as a precedent for future cases, which should adhere to the principles established in Ghaziabad Development Authority vs. Balbir Singh.