Supreme Court clarifies jurisdiction over pricing disputes involving Gram Panchayats

The Supreme Court granted leave to appeal against the National Consumer Disputes Redressal Commission's order regarding the jurisdiction of Consumer Disputes Redressal Forums over pricing disputes involving a Gram Panchayat claiming subsidy for electricity consumption. The Court emphasized that lack of jurisdiction cannot be overlooked based on factors such as the short period and the party being a Gram Panchayat. The appeal was allowed, the order under appeal was set aside, and the respondents' claim before the State Commission was dismissed, with no costs awarded.

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Issues involved: Jurisdiction of Consumer Disputes Redressal Forums over pricing disputes involving a Gram Panchayat claiming subsidy for electricity consumption.

Summary:
The Supreme Court, in a judgment concerning the jurisdiction of Consumer Disputes Redressal Forums over pricing disputes involving a Gram Panchayat claiming subsidy for electricity consumption, condoned the delay and granted leave to appeal against the National Consumer Disputes Redressal Commission's order. The Court noted the contention that the pricing issue did not fall within the purview of the Forums due to the short period and the party being a Gram Panchayat. However, the Court emphasized that lack of jurisdiction cannot be overlooked based on such factors and held that if a court lacks jurisdiction, it must be so declared. Consequently, the Court allowed the appeal, set aside the order under appeal, and dismissed the respondents' claim before the State Commission. No costs were awarded in the matter.

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