ORDER

Heard the learned counsel for the petitioner, learned standing counsel for the respondents 1 to 3 and the learned counsel for the fourth respondent.

2.The writ petitioner is a tenant under the fourth respondent. The relationship between the two has come under strain. The fourth respondent has already filed a suit in O.S.No.194 of 2018 on the file of the Sub Court, Padmanabhapuram, seeking recovery of possession. The said suit is at the stage of arguments and it is likely to be disposed of in the near future. In the meanwhile, the petitioner has moved this writ petition alleging that electricity supply to his shop is being disrupted. The petitioner is said to be having a sub meter for reading the supply to the petitioner's shop. But then, the sub meter is installed on the wall that is facing the fourth respondent. The specific allegation of the petitioner is that taking advantage of the location of the sub meter box, the fourth respondent is removing the fuse and thereby disrupting the supply of electricity to the petitioner's shop. According to the petitioner, this is a daily occurrence.

3.I make it clear that so long as the petitioner is in occupation of the premises, the petitioner is entitled to uninterrupted supply of electricity. A tenant is definitely entitled to provision of basic amenities such as supply of water and electricity from the statutory authorities. If this right is interfered with, certainly the tenant would be entitled to move the Court concerned for relief. I am of the view that at this stage, there is no need for shifting of the petition mentioned meter. However, I would restrain the fourth respondent from interfering with the petitioner's right to receive uninterrupted supply of electricity. I further make it clear and I clarify that this order will not confer any advantage on the petitioner in the pending suit proceedings. Since the petitioner's counsel firmly states that as on date, the petitioner is without supply of electricity, the respondents 1 to 3 are directed to take appropriate action for restoring the supply of electricity to the petitioner herein. The rights of the parties will of course abide by the eventual outcome of the suit proceedings. The TANGEDCO officials are entitled to take all possible steps for ensuring the petitioner is restored with supply of electricity. The official respondents are directed to complete the said work within a period of one week from the date of receipt of a copy of this order.

4.The writ petition is allowed on these terms. No costs. Consequently, connected miscellaneous petition is closed.

11.02.2021 Index : Yes / No Internet : Yes/ No ias Note : Issue order copy on 15.02.2021.

In view of the present lock down owing to COVID-19 pandemic, a web copy of the order may be utilized for official purposes, but, ensuring that the copy of the order that is presented is the correct copy, shall be the responsibility of the advocate/litigant concerned.

G.R.SWAMINATHAN, J.

ias

11.02.2021