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2020 (9) TMI 175 - HC - Companies LawStriking off the name of Kushal Power from the Register of the Companies - non-filing of financial statements and annual returns - disqualification of directors - Section 164(2)(a) of the Companies Act, 2013 - HELD THAT:- The judgment in MUKUT PATHAK & ORS., YOGESH KHANTWAL, AARTI KHANTWAL, AND VINEET WADHWA VERSUS UNION OF INDIA AND ANR. [2019 (11) TMI 319 - DELHI HIGH COURT], insofar as the merits of the case is concerned, is squarely applicable in the present case. The said judgment clearly holds that the proviso to Section 167(1)(a) of the Act cannot be read to operate retrospectively. It was further held that the said proviso, being a punitive measure with respect to the rights and obligations of directors, cannot be applied retrospectively unless the statutory amendment expressly provides so. In the present case, the facts and circumstances show that the Companies Fresh Start Scheme (CFSS) is a new scheme, which has been notified on 30th March, 2020. This Scheme was not invoked before the Ld. Division Bench. The scheme is obviously launched by the Government in order to give a reprieve to such companies who have defaulted in filing documents and they have been allowed to file their requisite documents and to regularize their operations, so as to not face disqualification. The Scheme also envisages non-imposition of penalty or any other charges for belated filing of the documents - The purpose and intent of the Scheme is to allow a fresh start for companies which have defaulted. In order for the Scheme to be effective, Directors of these companies ought to be given an opportunity to avail of the Scheme. The launch of the Scheme itself constitutes a fresh and a continuing cause of action. Under such circumstances, the question of delay or limitation would not arise. Considering the COVID-19 pandemic, the MCA has launched the Fresh Start Scheme-2020, which ought to be given full effect. It is not uncommon to see directors of one company being directors in another company. Under such circumstances, to disqualify directors permanently and not allowing them to avail of their DINs and DSCs could render the Scheme itself nugatory. Petition allowed.
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