In Brief
The University of Delhi appealed against the dismissal of its writ petition, seeking condonation of a 916-day delay in filing a Letters Patent Appeal. The Supreme Court held that while delay may be condoned under appropriate circumstances, mere status as a public body does not entitle an institution to lenient treatment. The Court found the University's reasons unconvincing and noted that its lackadaisical approach to the proceedings was contrary to public interest. Accordingly, the appeals were dismissed without considering the merits, emphasizing that proper diligence is expected of all litigants, regardless of status.
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