SUB. DIVISIONAL OFFICER (P),UHBVNL vs DHARAM PAL

The Supreme Court upheld the decision of the National Consumer Disputes Redressal Commission, affirming that the demand for electricity charges based on alleged tampering was illegal. The Court emphasized the necessity of following the procedure outlined in Section 26(6) of the Indian Electricity Act, 1910, which mandates a reference to the Electrical Inspector before raising such demands. The Court held that principles of natural justice were violated as no notice was given to the consumer prior to the demand being raised.