Exec.Director Steel Auth.Of India & Ors vs Tycoon Traders & Ors

The Supreme Court upheld the High Court's decision that the contract between Steel Authority of India (SAIL) and the respondent was frustrated due to the refusal of permission to lift iron ore fines from Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary, as per Section 38(v) of the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972. The Court ruled that SAIL's failure to refund the entire amount received from the respondent was illegal and unconscionable, emphasizing that parties must be restored to their original position in cases of frustration. Consequently, SAIL was directed to refund the amount within four weeks of the order.