In Brief
Kothari Industrial Corporation sought to enforce a concessional electricity tariff promised by the Tamil Nadu government for its caustic soda manufacturing unit. The government later withdrew the benefit when the unit became profitable, citing amended regulations. The Supreme Court held that statutory concessions are defeasible privileges that the State may withdraw at any time. No doctrine of promissory estoppel can prevent withdrawal of benefits granted under statute. The Court found the State's assessment of profitability and its policy decisions regarding tariff rates entirely within the State's discretion. All appeals were dismissed.
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