In Brief
Indian Oil Corporation terminated the retail dealership of Lala Bhairo Prasad Saraf and Sons, a petroleum outlet operator, citing irregularities found during inspections. The High Court quashed the termination on grounds of violation of natural justice principles, as the Corporation had not afforded adequate opportunity to respond before the termination order. On appeal, the Supreme Court noted that while a fresh opportunity should normally be given, it accepted the respondent's explicit statement that they no longer wished to continue the dealership. The Court disposed of the appeal by directing refund of the security deposit within six weeks and permitting equipment removal within eight weeks, thereby ending the prolonged litigation without further procedural remand."
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