JUDGMENT :

1. The present First Appeal is filed by the appellant under Section 96 of the Code of Civil Procedure, 1908 (for short, hereinafter referred to as `the Code’). Being aggrieved by the judgment and decree dated 18.4.2009 passed by the learned Principle Senior Civil Judge, Jamnagar in Special Civil Suit No.74 of 2004 and directing the appellant – original defendant to pay to the respondent original plaintiff Rs.15,21,800/- with running interest at the rate of 7.5% per annum from 27.4.2004 till realization.

2. Heard learned advocate Ms. Lilu Bhaya for the defendant - appellant. Though served, none appeared for the respondent/s – original plaintiffs.

3. The brief facts of the case are as under:

4. The plaintiff has filed a suit for the recovery of Rs.15,21,800/- with running interest @ 7.5% p.a. from 27.4.2004 till realisation against defendants. The plaintiff is running a hotel in the name of `Hotel Arjun’ at Moti Khavdi, Village Sikka Taluka Jamnagar and having a Customer No.82102–00725-1 of GEB. The electric meter was installed on 19/1/1999, form No.15 was filled up and at that time, the terminal block was burned. A checking squad from Mehsana Division of the appellants visite