Mahalakshmi Sugar Mills Co. Ltd.& Anr vs Union Of India & Ors

The Supreme Court addressed the factors the Central Government must consider under Section 3(3C) of the Essential Commodities Act, 1955 for determining the price of levy sugar. The Court emphasized that the minimum price for sugarcane, manufacturing costs, applicable duties or taxes, and ensuring a reasonable return on capital are critical considerations. The judgment clarified the applicability of the Sugarcane Control Order and upheld the government's authority to set prices based on these factors for the sugar years 1983-84 and 1984-85.