Mediation Period Can Be Excluded While Computing Limitation for Filing Written Statements : Delhi HC

The Delhi High Court ruled that time spent in mediation can be excluded when calculating the limitation period for filing a written statement under the Delhi High Court (Original Side) Rules, 2018.

The bench stated that forcing parties to file pleadings during mediation would undermine the process and its goal of an amicable settlement.

The ruling came in a property dispute where the defendants sought condonation of delay in filing their written statements. 

Citing Section 89 CPC and the Supreme Court’s decision in Vikram Bakshi & Others v. Sonia Khosla (2014), the court allowed the delay while imposing a ₹5,000 cost payable to the Armed Forces Battle Casualties Welfare Fund.