Adjournment granted in part-heard proceedings due to the temporary unavailability of lead counsel.

This matter involves a batch of appeals (Appeal Nos. 442, 443, 444, 448, 449, 487, 551, and 581 of 2022) filed against the Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI).

During the proceedings on April 16, 2026, the matters were described as "part heard"

Counsel appearing for the appellants in Appeal Nos. 442 and 443 of 2022 moved an application for an adjournment.

The request was predicated on the fact that the lead arguing counsel, Mr. Andhyarujina, was currently out of the country and unavailable to represent the appellants on the scheduled date.

1. Whether the Tribunal should grant an adjournment in a part-heard matter based on the unavailability of the lead arguing counsel

The Tribunal exercised its inherent procedural discretion to regulate its own proceedings and grant adjournments.

This is governed by the principles of natural justice and the Securities Appellate Tribunal (Procedure) Rules, 2000, which allow the Tribunal to adjourn hearings for sufficient cause to ensure a fair opportunity of being heard

The Tribunal noted that the appeals were at the stage of being part-heard

Upon the mention by the learned advocate for the appellants in Appeal Nos. 442 and 443, the Tribunal considered the specific ground for the delay—namely, the absence of the arguing counsel from the country.

Recognizing the request and the absence of any recorded objection from the respondent’s side, the Tribunal found it appropriate to allow the prayer for additional time to ensure the appellants are effectively represented by their chosen counsel.

The matters are ordered to be called for further hearing on April 29, 2026