public authority fair procedure India

The Supreme Court held that cancellation of a residential plot allotment by the Haryana Urban Development Authority (HUDA) on grounds of non-payment must be preceded by adequate notice and opportunity to be heard, in line with principles of natural justice. The Court affirmed the High Court's setting aside of the cancellation due to lack of personal service and absence of fair hearing. The Estate Officer failed to notify the allottee effectively and did not properly consider her request for time extension based on her husband's illness. The case reinforces that administrative actions must adhere to procedural fairness.