In a recent judgment, the Supreme Court of India emphasized the importance of not allowing litigants to misuse the legal process through repeated and vexatious applications. The apex court underscored that
“no litigant should be permitted to be so lethargic and apathetic much less should be permitted to misuse the process of law.”
This statement came in light of a case involving a dispute over property rights at a natural therapy center named ‘Vasant Nature Care Hospital’ and ‘Pratibha Maternity Hospital Trust’. The primary contention was between the trust and a former watchman, Ukaji Ramaji. Ramaji had been provided a room within the premises during his employment. However, after his dismissal, he claimed ownership of the said premises and sought a permanent injunction to prevent the trust from interfering with his possession.
After the trial court dismissed Ramaji’s claims, the matter escalated to the High Court, which ruled in favor of the trust. Following this, the legal heirs of the late Ramaji approached the Supreme Court but later withdrew their appeal, indicating their intent to file a review application before the High Court.
Over the subsequent years, the legal heirs filed multiple Miscellaneous Civil Applications (MCAs) seeking a review of the High Court’s judgment. Most of these applications were dismissed due to non-prosecution. However, in a surprising move, the High Court allowed one such application in 2019, imposing a cost of ₹15,000.
The Supreme Court, while reviewing this case, expressed dissatisfaction with the High Court’s decision. The apex court noted that the High Court had
“committed gross error in allowing such vexatious applications and that too without assigning any reason.”
The court further emphasized that even though they hadn’t granted explicit permission for a review, the respondents continued to file applications, which were mostly dismissed for lack of prosecution.
Given these observations, the Supreme Court set aside the High Court’s order that allowed the MCA in 2019. However, the court upheld the imposed cost of ₹15,000, directing the respondents to deposit it as instructed by the High Court.
This judgment serves as a stern reminder of the judiciary’s commitment to preventing the misuse of the legal process. It underscores the importance of ensuring that the legal system is not bogged down by unnecessary and repetitive applications, thereby ensuring swift justice for all parties involved.
Case Title: VASANT NATURE CURE HOSPITAL & PRATIBHA MATERNITY HOSPITAL TRUST & ORS. v. UKAJI RAMAJI-SINCE DECEASED THROUGH HIS LEGAL HEIRS & ANR, 2023INSC825.
