PRAKASH H. JAIN vs MARIE FERNANDES

The Supreme Court held that under the Maharashtra Rent Control Act, 1999, there is no provision allowing the Competent Authority to condone delays in filing applications for leave to defend eviction proceedings. The Court affirmed the High Court's decision to set aside the orders of the Competent Authority that had condoned the delay and granted leave to defend, thereby directing the Competent Authority to proceed with the eviction application. The ruling clarifies the limits of authority granted to the Competent Authority under the Act, emphasizing strict adherence to procedural timelines.