( 1 ) THIS suit has been filed by the plaintiff, inter alia, for a decree for Rs. 1,93,274. 10 p. for price of goods sold and delivered to the defendant.

( 2 ) THE plaintiff's case, in short, is that on October 3, 1972 it had sold and delivered to the defendant various electrical goods of the total value of Rupees 1,33,082. 50 p. On October 9, 1972, the plaintiff to secure payment of its dues drew a Hundi and/or sola of exchange upon the defendant directing the latter to pay within 45 days from date the said sum to the plaintiff's bankers and the defendant duly accepted the same. On due date, the instrument was dishonoured by non-payment and in spite of demands the defendant has failed and neglected to pay the plaintiff's dues.

( 3 ) THE defendant has filed its written statement denying the allegations in the plaint. It is contended further that the suit is not maintainable by virtue of the provisions of the Coal Mines (Nationalisation) Act, 1973 (hereinafter referred to as the said Act),

( 4 ) THE only issue raised and settled at the trial was -- Is the suit maintainable by reason of the provisions of the Coal Mines (Nationalisation) Act. 1973?

( 5 ) NO witness