The National Company Law Tribunal (NCLT) has introduced a new framework to bring uniformity in Registry practices and case listing across its Benches. The instructions have been issued under the direction of NCLT President Justice Anupinder Singh Grewal.

Under the new framework, matters in each statutory category will be listed in chronological order, with the oldest pending matters listed first. Admission matters under the Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code and applications for approval of resolution plans will receive priority and be placed at the top of the Cause List.

“The prescribed sequence is intended to bring greater consistency and discipline to the taking up of matters, while preserving the discretion of the Hon'ble Bench to specially direct the listing of any matter in an appropriate case.” the press release stated

The framework allows flexibility in listing matters on designated days. That is, IBC matters may be listed on Companies Act days when necessary, while Companies Act matters may be listed on IBC days in appropriate cases.

Matters in the Supplementary Cause List that cannot be taken up due to lack of time or other reasons will be carried forward to the Supplementary List of the next working day, unless the Bench directs otherwise. Once a Regular Cause List is published, no Revised Cause List will be issued. Additions, deletions and corrections will instead be dealt with through Supplementary Cause Lists, Deletion Notes and Corrigenda, respectively.

A registered matter is required to be listed at the earliest available opportunity and not later than three working days from the date of marking to the concerned Court.

The framework further introduces a “With Defects” mechanism, allowing matters involving objections requiring judicial determination to be placed before the Bench instead of the Registry indefinitely withholding them.

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To Read the full text of the Order CLICK HERE