V.K.SREEDHARAN vs STATE OF KERALA .

The Supreme Court upheld the validity of Section 25A of the Kerala Abkari Shops (Disposal in Auction) Rules, 1974, which allows for a 75% reduction in interest on arrears as of 31.3.1997, despite the notification being published later. The Court clarified that the effective date of the provision is based on the state of affairs as of 31.3.1997, and thus, the appellants, who paid their dues after this date, are entitled to the benefits of the reduction. The Court reversed the Division Bench's decision and reinstated the Single Judge's order for a refund based on the amended rules.