New India Assurance Co. Ltd vs Hilli Multipurpose Cold Storage Pvt Ltd

The Supreme Court upheld the National Consumer Disputes Redressal Commission's decision to forfeit the Appellant's right to file a written statement due to non-compliance with the statutory period prescribed under Section 13 of the Consumer Protection Act, 1986. The Court emphasized the mandatory nature of the timelines set forth in the Act, reinforcing that delays beyond the stipulated period cannot be condoned without valid justification. The appeal was dismissed, affirming the NCDRC's order and the importance of adhering to procedural timelines in consumer disputes.