In Brief
Municipal Council Gondia issued a work order to Divi Works & Suppliers for supply of desks, benches, and almirahs to its schools. During the COVID-19 pandemic, citing financial constraints and a Government Resolution, the Council suspended and later cancelled the work order. The supplier filed a writ petition; the High Court allowed it and directed the Council to accept supplies and make payment. The Supreme Court allowed the Council's appeal, holding that the High Court erred in issuing mandamus for specific performance without evidence that goods were actually manufactured per specifications. The Court noted disputed factual questions existed and relegated the supplier to civil proceedings for damages if any.
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