SHIMLA: In a recent hearing of M/s R.T. Pharma vs. Union of India, the Himachal Pradesh High Court expressed strong displeasure over the failure of multiple respondents to file their replies, despite being served notices almost five months ago.
During the proceedings on October 23, 2024, the petitioner was represented by Advocate Goverdhan Lal Sharma, while Deputy Solicitor General of India, Balram Sharma, appeared for respondent No. 1 (Union of India), stating that no reply would be filed on behalf of the Centre.
The court, led by Acting Chief Justice Tarlok Singh Chauhan and Judge Satyen Vaidya, pointed out that no explanation was provided by the State or other respondents for the delay in filing their replies.
The bench expressed concern that this lack of response, without even submitting an application for an extension, suggested that the court's authority was being taken for granted.
In a stern directive, the court ordered the Chief Secretary of Himachal Pradesh to look into the matter and ensure that government departments file their replies within the time granted by the court.
The court further warned that if replies are not submitted after two successive opportunities, it would not hesitate to impose costs, recoverable from the responsible officers.
The court has now listed the matter for November 6, 2024. If the respondents fail to file their replies by then, their right to do so will be deemed closed.