In Brief
Acme Cleantech Solutions filed a consumer complaint against United India Insurance Company for failing to settle insurance claims worth over ₹19 crores for damage to solar power plants caused by storms. The National Consumer Disputes Redressal Commission (NCDRC) directed the appellant to amend its complaint and permitted the insurer to file a written statement despite missing the statutory 30-day deadline. The Supreme Court held that a complainant cannot be compelled to amend its complaint and is the master of its own pleading. The Court set aside the NCDRC's order and clarified that the complainant has three options: pursue the complaint unchanged, voluntarily amend it, or withdraw and file fresh proceedings. The disposition remains with the complainant, not the forum."
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