Contract Rules Supreme: SC Says CERC Tariff Cap Can’t Override State’s Right to Free Power

The Supreme Court ruled that CERC’s 13% tariff cap does not nullify Himachal Pradesh’s contractual right to 18% free power from JSW Hydro. Contractual obligations prevail over regulatory limits, the Court emphasized.

‘Royalty Not In The Nature Of Tax’: SC Rejects Review Petitions Against Verdict Allowing States To Levy Tax On Mineral Rights

A nine-judge Constitution Bench of the Supreme Court Today (Oct 4) rejected review petitions against its judgment which held that royalty paid by mining operators to the Central government is not a tax and that states have the power to levy cesses on mining and mineral-use activities. Justice Nagarathna dissented from the majority and issued notice on the review petitions.

“Royalty Not a Tax”| 9-Judge Bench | SC Grants States Power to Levy Taxes on Mineral Rights by 8:1 Majority

Today(on 25th July),The Supreme Court ruled that states have the authority to tax mines and mineral-bearing lands under the Constitution, with an 8:1 majority. Chief Justice D.Y. Chandrachud clarified that royalty on minerals is not a tax and that Parliament lacks the power to tax mineral rights.