DRT Cannot Condone Delay Beyond 45 Days Under SARFAESI Act: Karnataka High Court

The Karnataka High Court held that the Debt Recovery Tribunal (DRT) cannot condone delay beyond the 45-day time limit prescribed under Section 17 of the SARFAESI Act.

The case involved a borrower who challenged recovery measures after the expiry of this period and sought condonation of the delay.

The Court noted that the law provides a strict 45-day deadline to ensure speedy recovery of debts, and there is no provision allowing the DRT to extend this period.

It emphasised that tribunals do not have inherent powers like courts to relax limitation unless expressly permitted by law, and therefore such delayed applications cannot be entertained.

[V. Thulsiram & Anr. v. Authorised Officer, Canara Bank & Anr.]