Collector Of Ganjam & Anr vs Ramesh Chander Pandhi

The Supreme Court addressed the interpretation of the second proviso to Section 6-A(1) of the Essential Commodities Act, 1955, clarifying that the fine imposed in lieu of confiscation should be based on the market price of the essential commodity seized, not the market value of the vehicle used for its transport. The Court held that the Collector's imposition of a fine of Rs. 20,000 was improper as it did not adhere to this principle, thus upholding the High Court's decision to set aside the fine. The judgment reinforces the procedural requirements under the Essential Commodities Act regarding confiscation and fines.