G.P.SRIVASTAVA vs R.K.RAIZADA

The Supreme Court upheld the dismissal of the appellant's application to set aside an ex-parte decree under Order 9 Rule 13 of the Code of Civil Procedure, stating that the appellant failed to demonstrate sufficient cause for his absence during the proceedings. The Court emphasized that the circumstances cited by the appellant, including his work obligations and the unfortunate accident of his counsel's nephew, did not constitute a valid justification for non-appearance. Consequently, the Court affirmed the High Court's decision, maintaining the ex-parte decree in favor of the respondent-landlord.