ANIRUDDHA BOSE,J. - (1.) In this matter, under challenge is demand for interest against the petitioners under the provisions of Section 7Q of the Employees' Provident Funds and Miscellaneous Provisions Act, 1952 amounting to Rs. 87,38,272/-. Mr. Banerjee, learned Senior Counsel appearing for the petitioners submits that the principal amount quantified as dues has already been paid and the petitioners are willing to liquidate the dues under the head of interest also on suitable instalments. In my interim order passed on 7th December, 2011, I had directed stay of operation of an order issued under Section 8F on 29th November, 2011 on condition that the petitioners should deposit a sum of Rs. 20 lacs and I had also directed that the question of instalments would be considered on the next date of hearing.
(2.) Mrs. Banerjee, learned Counsel appearing for the respondents submits that her clients have received the said sum of Rs. 20 lacs but she needs further instruction as regards the practice being followed by the department in fixing the number of instalments. She wants further time to obtain such instalment.
(3.) In these circumstances, let the interim order of stay continue as already directed. The petitioner however shall further deposit a sum of Rs. 10 lacs within a period of fortnight from date.;