PAN RELATIONS PVT. LTD. Vs. PRIYANK KUMAR SINGHAL

JUDGEMENT

(1.) This first appeal has been filed under section 19 read with section 21(a)(ii) of the Consumer Protection Act, 1986 challenging the impugned order dated 30.05.2016, passed by the Delhi State Consumer Disputes Redressal Commission (hereinafter referred to as 'the State Commission') in Consumer Complaint No. C-652/15, vide which the right of the appellants/opposite parties (OPs) to file written version to the complaint was closed on the ground that the same was not filed within the statutory period laid down under section 13 of the Consumer Protection Act, 1986. Notice of the appeal was sent to the respondent, who entered appearance through counsel.

(2.) The impugned order dated 30.05.2016 passed by the State Commission reads as follows:-

(3.) During arguments before me, the learned counsel for the appellant stated that after receipt of notice of the complaint from the State Commission, they had put in appearance before the said Commission on 24.02.2016. However, they could not file their written statement in time as the Director of the appellant company passed away on 05.03.2016. They had filed the written statement on 30.05.2016. There was a delay of about 45 days in filing the written statement, which should be condoned and the written version should be taken on record. The learned counsel has drawn attention to an order passed by the Honourable Supreme Court in " Reliance General Insurance Co. Ltd. and Anr. Vs. M/s Mampee Timbers and Hardwares Pvt. ltd. and Anr, Civil Appeal D. No. 2365 of 2017 decided 10.02.2017", saying that as per the view taken in the said order, the consumer fora could accept the written statement on suitable terms including the payment of costs etc.