S. G. DODDAKALE GOWDA, J.

( 1 ) PETITIONERS in these series have challenged the validity of Regulations framed by the respondent-Board providing for furnishing of cash security three times' the highest bill amount in a single month between January to October during a calendar year as ultra vires including the demands.

( 2 ) PETITIONERS mainly depend upon power supplied by respondent to run their industry in the State of Karnataka, some are high-tension consumers, some lowtension consumers and a few others for commercial purposes. They have made certain initial deposits at the time of securing power connection as per Regulations then in force. Under Regulation 55 of electricity Supply Regulations, 1948 as amended and adopted by the respondent- board could require a consumer to deposit security amount equivelant to two months average bill or two months minimum charges whichever was higher. This was later on amended enhancing it to three months. Regulation 31. 03 prior to its amendment in March 1989, provided for furnishing cash security up to Rs. 1,00,000/- and exceeding Rs. 1,00,000/- 50 per cent to a limit of Rs. 10,00,000/- dy cash and balance by Bank Guarantee. The enhancement to

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