#Delay in Proceedings

The Madhya Pradesh High Court has ruled that revenue authorities cannot invoke suo motu revision under Section 50 of the M.P. Land Revenue Code after 180 days from the date they became aware of an illegality. This sets a strict procedural deadline to prevent arbitrary, delayed interference with land rights, protecting beneficiaries of long-standing allotments from indefinite administrative uncertainty.

The Bombay High Court has quashed disciplinary action against an ONGC manager after a decade-long delay in inquiry, holding that such prolonged inaction violates natural justice and renders the order non-speaking. All service benefits, including back wages and seniority, must be restored within six weeks, setting a clear precedent for timely administrative justice in public sector employment.

The Himachal Pradesh High Court ruled that non-payment of costs ordered under Section 35B of the CPC is a valid ground for striking off a defendant’s defence, reinforcing that compliance with cost orders is mandatory, not discretionary. This decision underscores the judiciary’s intolerance for dilatory tactics and ensures procedural discipline in civil litigation.

Delhi High Court holds that interim maintenance under Section 125 CrPC must ordinarily commence from date of filing, not date of order, to prevent financial hardship to dependents.

Punjab & Haryana High Court holds that plaintiffs in recovery suits may be granted two fresh opportunities to lead evidence despite prior delays, subject to cost deposit.