In Brief
The Supreme Court resolved a constitutional reference on the Consumer Protection Act, 1986, holding that the District Forum cannot extend the time for filing response to complaints beyond 15 days (in addition to 30 days) under Section 13(2)(a). The provision is mandatory because the Act specifies consequences for non-filing and excludes natural justice principles where procedures are followed. The Court also clarified that the 30-day limitation commences from receipt of notice accompanied by a copy of the complaint, not merely receipt of notice. The judgment emphasizes that strict timelines achieve the Act's core objective of speedy consumer dispute resolution, and that equity cannot override clear statutory language.
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