Order recalling Suo Motu Extension of Limitation Period to be given effect from October 1, 2021

The Hon'ble Supreme Court in the matter of RE COGNIZANCE FOR EXTENSION OF LIMITATION [Miscellaneous Application No. 665/2021 in SMW(C) No. 3/2020 dated April 27, 2021] under Article 142 read with Article 141 of the Constitution of India took suo motu cognizance considering the challenges faced by the litigants on account of COVID-19 and restored the order dated March 23, 2020 which directed to extend the period of limitation for filing of cases prescribed under general or special laws with effect from March 15, 2020.

The Election Commission of India had filed an application which seeked modification of the limitation period extended which was ordered vide order dated April 27, 2021 as far as the election petitions are concerned. It contended that conserving election papers and Electronic Voting Machines ("EVM") for an indefinite period has been a difficult task. The Hon'ble Supreme Court while considering the application noted that it shall consider recalling of the suo motu order not just with regards to election petition but in respect of all cases as the COVID situation has improved across the country.

The Hon'ble Supreme Court on September 23, 2021 noted that it will be reviewing the order dated April 27, 2021 which extended the order dated March 23, 2020 due to rise in COVID cases owing to the second wave. The Attorney General of India suggested that the order dated March 08, 2021should be restored which lifted the extended period of limitation by asserting that there are no containment zones to his knowledge and that normalcy has now returned in the country.

The President of Supreme Court Advocates-on-Record Association on the other hand prayed that limitation extension should be kept in force till the end of the year as there still lies a threat of third wave.

The Hon'ble Chief Justice of India rejecting the prayer of President of Supreme Court Advocates-on-Record Association observed that the order dated April 27, 2021 extending the period of limitation can be lifted. Further observed that such order will stand withdrawn with effect from October 1, 2021.

Noted, "if there is a third wave, we will see", and held that this Hon'ble Court shall pass an order setting out terms and conditions by indicating that a buffer period of 90 days would be given with effect from October 1, 2021.