TRANSMISSION CORPN.OF A.P.LTD.&ORS vs M/S.SRI RAMA KRISHNA RICE MILL

The Supreme Court upheld the Andhra Pradesh High Court's ruling that a consumer facing a final assessment for alleged energy pilferage is entitled to cross-examine officials whose statements are relied upon for the assessment. The Court emphasized that the inquiry is quasi-judicial in nature, invoking principles of fair play and due process under the Electricity (Supply) Act, 1948, specifically Section 49. The Court rejected the appellants' argument that cross-examination was unnecessary, affirming the High Court's decision to allow such a right in cases where statements of officials are pivotal to the assessment.