M/S Ashoka Smokeless Coal Industries ... vs Union Of India & Ors

The Supreme Court addressed the petitions filed by industrial undertakings challenging the E-auction scheme for coal sales implemented by Coal India Ltd. and its subsidiaries, which resulted in higher prices than the previously notified rates. The Court held that the petitioners were entitled to coal supply at the notified price, subject to executing indemnity bonds and providing undertakings to pay any price difference if the petitions were unsuccessful. The Court emphasized the need for interim measures to protect the rights of the industrial concerns while the matter was under consideration, thereby ensuring their continued access to coal at the established rates.