Authority: Court (presiding Judge Virender Singh)

Order Date: 17 July 2026

Case Overview

  • Parties: National Highways Authority of India (applicant) vs. Puran Singh (Respondent No.1) and another respondent (Respondent No.2).
  • Respondent No.1 did not appear despite notice; Respondent No.2 failed to file a reply even after being granted time.
  • The applicant sought condonation of delay in filing the accompanying appeal, citing a delay of 156 days (registry records show 171 days) and invoking administrative exigencies under Section 5 of the Limitation Act.
  • The court noted that the averments were uncontroverted and emphasized a liberal approach, focusing on merits rather than technicalities.
  • Separate matter (OMPST No.40570 of 2026) involved an arbitration award dated 28 March 2024, issued in Case No.586/2018 by the Divisional Commissioner exercising powers under the National Highways Act, 1956.

Final Outcome

  • The application to condone the delay is allowed; the 156‑day (or 171‑day) delay in filing the main appeal is officially condoned.
  • The application concerning the arbitration award is also allowed: execution of the award is stayed, subject to the respondent depositing the entire awarded amount together with up‑to‑date interest within eight weeks.
  • Both applications are disposed of.

Topics: Legal Proceedings, Arbitration