Karnataka High Court Dismisses Government Appeal for 14-Year Delay
Court Rejects State's Plea for Condonation Without Sufficient Cause
In a notable judgment, the Karnataka High Court has dismissed an appeal filed by the Principal Secretary to the Government Department of Revenue due to an extraordinary delay of nearly 14 years. The appeal, which challenged an order dated February 11, 2011, was accompanied by a request for condonation of delay. However, the court, led by Justices D K Singh and Venkatesh Naik T, found the delay unjustifiable and inordinate, ruling that the government could not simply rely on the passage of time without demonstrating sufficient and reasonable cause.
The court drew a symbolic comparison to the 14-year exile of Lord Rama in mythology, emphasizing that unlike Lord Rama, the government was not in exile during this period and, therefore, could not use this as a justification for the delay. The bench criticized the lack of proactive action and vigilance on the part of the state in pursuing its legal remedies.
The judgment underlines a significant principle under the Limitation Act, 1963, that seeks to prevent the abuse of legal processes by ensuring timely pursuit of appeals. The court's decision highlights the importance of adhering to statutory timelines and the inability to condone delays without compelling reasons.
The dismissal of the Original Side Appeal and the associated application for delay condonation signifies the judiciary's firm stance against neglect and inaction, even by state authorities, reinforcing the need for accountability and diligence in legal affairs.
Bottom Line:
A delay of 14 years in filing an appeal cannot be condoned unless sufficient and reasonable cause is shown.
Statutory provision(s): Limitation Act, 1963
