In a recent session, the Bombay High Court expressed sharp disapproval over the State’s continuous requests for adjournments, which have stalled legal proceedings and impeded judicial efficiency. The court labeled the State’s approach as “robotic,” criticizing the habitual delays in filing reply affidavits and other essential documents.
A Bench comprising Justices GS Kulkarni and Somasekhar Sundaresan emphasized that the ongoing trend of seeking adjournments is unacceptable. They announced a firm approach, declaring that future requests for extensions will only be granted with valid justification and appropriate applications. The court warned that any unjustified delays will result in the rejection of adjournment requests or the imposition of costs.
The High Court has also proposed a new circular aimed at streamlining the filing process of reply affidavits and improving the communication of court orders. The circular, to be issued by the office of the Government Pleader, seeks to establish an effective procedure for prompt action on court orders.
The case in question involved a dispute between Sudhakar Madhukar Patil and the Thane Collector. Despite an order issued over a year ago requiring the filing of reply affidavits, the necessary documents remained unsubmitted. The court expressed concern that its orders may not be effectively communicated to the relevant departments, leading to unnecessary delays.
As a consequence of the State’s non-compliance, the court granted a final extension for the filing of reply affidavits until September 12, with the condition that the respondents—State and City Industrial and Development Corporation (CIDCO)—pay a cost of ₹10,000 each to the petitioners. The court made it clear that any further extensions will only be granted under exceptional circumstances and will result in additional costs.
The matter is scheduled for hearing on September 12.
