The petitioners’ are the tenants who have rented out the office space where the water connection of the premises has stopped since 18 June 2020. The Calcutta High Court directs the respondent to ensure water supply immediately on the basis of the balance of equity principle.
Facts of the Case
The petitioner rented out the office space and had workers coming and going daily. Yet, due to no payment of rent for space, the water supply got disconnected. The Kolkata Municipal Corporation decided this on 18 June 2020. Since then, it has been difficult for the petitioner and the members who come to work in the space.
Submissions by the Petitioner
The counsel of the petitioner notified the Court about the title suit filed in the City Civil Court. The petitioner received an ex-parte order of eviction against them. The respondent acting on the order decided to go ahead with the petitioner’s eviction. An application under Order IX Rule 13 of the Code of Civil Procedure is filed. Based on the application, the Court ordered a “stay” on the previous decree. The Court also ensured that the petitioner paid the dues. These were the reasons made by the counsel for the irrational measure taken.
Submission by the Respondent
The counsel for the respondent mentions that they have not received any copy of such an order. According to them, the rent amount is still pending. Due to the non-payment of rent, the drastic measure of cutting the water supply is taken.
The Decision of the Court
The Court examined the documents and arguments provided by the counsels. The examination of documents shows that there is no proof to show the petitioner’s default. That is to say, there is no proof to show that the petitioner has not paid the rent. Due to the lack of definite proof, there are no reasons for the extreme measures taken by the respondent. Thus, the Court directed them to ensure the water supply restored. The Court adjudicated the matter based on the balance of the equity principle.
If there are unpaid amounts on the petitioner’s behalf it needs to paid within 4 weeks. The matter is up again 4 weeks from the date of the judgment.
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