In Brief

The Supreme Court took suo motu cognizance of difficulties faced by litigants during the COVID-19 pandemic in accessing courts to file petitions and appeals within prescribed time limits. The Court exercised its powers under Articles 142 and 141 of the Constitution to extend all periods of limitation, whether under general or special laws, from 15 March 2020 until further orders. This binding order applied to all courts, tribunals, and authorities nationwide, enabling litigants to file proceedings without physical access to courts during the pandemic.

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