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In personal insolvency case before NCLAT, Subhash Chandra opposes formation of 5-member NCLT bench
India🏛️ PoliticsCenter5 days ago

In personal insolvency case before NCLAT, Subhash Chandra opposes formation of 5-member NCLT bench

In a personal insolvency case involving Essel Group Chairman Subhash Chandra, the National Company Law Tribunal (NCLT) formed a five-member bench to review the case, but Chandra and his legal representative, Senior Advocate Sasmit Patra, opposed this move. They argued that the NCLT lacks the legal authority to establish such a bench and that the existing rulings by two members, Ashok Kumar Bhardwaj and Nilesh Sharma, are consistent on key issues like repayment plans and eligibility under Section 79 of the Companies Act, 2013. The NCLT had previously stayed an order allowing Chandra to settle approximately ₹6.5 crore in claims against total debts of around ₹22,006 crore. Solicitor General Tushar Mehta, representing dissenting creditors including banks and housing finance companies, suggested the case involves conflicting interpretations and might warrant further examination by a larger bench. However, Patra emphasized that the relevant provisions of the Companies Act do not empower the NCLT to create a five-member bench.

The National Company Law Tribunal (NCLT) has halted the implementation of a repayment plan proposed by Zee Entertainment Enterprises Ltd founder Subhash Chandra, effectively putting on hold his plan to settle debts of ₹6.5 crore. The stay was issued by a five-member special bench of the NCLT, led by Justice Anupinder Singh Grewal, which determined that the prior approval granted by member Nilesh Sharma on 25 August did not reflect the tribunal’s majority view. The bench also restricted Chandra from selling or transferring any of his properties during the ongoing proceedings. The NCLT ordered the issuance of notices to all parties involved and set the next hearing for 23 September. The outcome of this hearing will determine whether Chandra’s repayment plan, under which he would pay ₹6.25 crore to creditors and ₹25 lakh toward insolvency costs, can proceed. The plan received support from 80.81% of creditors by value, though several major lenders, including LIC Housing Finance, HDFC Bank, Axis Bank, Canara Bank, Union Bank of India (UK), and RBL Bank, opposed it. The NCLT clarified that no majority view had emerged regarding the repayment plan. One member of the tribunal had suggested that the plan should apply only to creditors who supported it, allowing dissenters to seek separate recovery actions. Another member argued that the plan should apply universally, including to opposing creditors. These conflicting opinions led to the referral of the matter back to the NCLT president for further consideration. The formation of a five-member bench to address the case marks a rare occurrence in the NCLT’s history. Typically, the tribunal operates through single-member benches or two-member benches consisting of one judicial and one technical member. Legal experts noted that the unusual composition of the bench might have been influenced by the high-profile nature of the case and the public interest surrounding it. Chandra’s office expressed confidence in the judicial system, stating that they have “complete faith and confidence” in it. Meanwhile, Chandra has repeatedly emphasized that the ₹22,000 crore figure cited in the proceedings refers to personal guarantees he provided for loans taken by companies affiliated with the Essel Group, not personal borrowings. He has stated that the group repaid around ₹43,000 crore of the nearly ₹45,000 crore it owed following its financial crisis in 2019. Chandra also highlighted that he and his family sold personal assets, including their home, to fulfill the group’s repayment obligations. He currently holds around ₹6.5 crore and a small residential property, part of which is rented out to manage his expenses. He has called for an independent audit of the group’s borrowing, repayments, and remaining liabilities to resolve the controversy. The dispute has escalated to the National Company Law Appellate Tribunal (NCLAT), where dissenting lenders have challenged the NCLT’s order. Solicitor General Tushar Mehta, representing creditors such as LIC Housing Finance, Canara Bank, and Union Bank of India, argued that allowing the repayment plan to proceed would undermine the objectives of the Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code. Legal representatives for both sides have presented differing interpretations of key sections of the code, particularly Section 79(2)(g) and Section 115(1). While one approach limits the repayment plan to supporting creditors, another extends it to all creditors, thereby extinguishing the claims of dissenting parties. The NCLT’s decision to refer the matter back to its president highlights the complexity of the case and the need for a clear and reasoned majority view. As the next hearing approaches, the focus will remain on resolving the conflicting interpretations and determining the fate of Chandra’s repayment plan. The case continues to draw attention due to the significant disparity between the admitted claims and the proposed repayment amount. Critics argue that the haircut imposed on creditors is exceptionally high, while Chandra maintains that the figure reflects personal guarantees rather than direct personal indebtedness. The upcoming hearing on 23 September will provide clarity on the tribunal’s stance and potentially influence the trajectory of the case moving forward.

How this report was made. Objective News wrote this report from 7 source articles, using AI-assisted synthesis under our methodology. It is our own text, not a copy of any single outlet. Read our methodology.

Responsible editor: Matej BašaSpotted an error? Report it

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13 reports

Times of India logoTimes of IndiaIndependentCenterFactual 90Objective 886 days ago
5-member NCLT bench to hear Indiabulls plea against Chandra

The National Company Law Tribunal (NCLT) has formed a five-member bench led by Justice Anupinder Singh Grewal to address Indiabulls Housing Finance's insolvency plea against Subhash Chandra, concerning guarantees he provided to lenders. This follows a split decision by a previous two-member division bench, which referred the matter to a third member, resulting in conflicting opinions. The third member's approval of the repayment plan, which extinguished creditors' rights, has now been sent back to the original division bench for a formal order aligned with the majority view. Meanwhile, the NCLAT is set to review an order allowing the Essel Group chairman to make a Rs 6.5 crore payment amid creditor claims totaling around Rs 22,007 crore. Solicitor General Tushar Mehta argued that allowing the order would undermine the Insolvency & Bankruptcy Code. The situation highlights ongoing legal complexities and potential implications for financial stakeholders.

Bias read (Center): The article presents a balanced account of the legal proceedings involving multiple benches of the NCLT and NCLAT, detailing both sides of the dispute without overtly favoring either party. It reports on the procedural aspects of the insolvency case, including the split verdicts and subsequent refus

Why factuality (90): The article provides detailed information about the formation of the five-member bench, the failure to reach a majority view, and the legal background of the case. It matches the primary source document closely and includes relevant legal terminology.

Why objectivity (88): The tone remains neutral, providing a comprehensive overview of the legal proceedings without injecting personal opinions or biases.

Hindustan Times logoHindustan TimesIndependentCenterFactual 90Objective 855 days ago
NCLT stays Zee founder Subhash Chandra's ₹6.5 crore repayment plan

The National Company Law Tribunal (NCLT) has temporarily halted a repayment plan proposed by Zee Entertainment founder Subhash Chandra, which aimed to settle debts totaling ₹6.5 crore. The plan, which received 80.81% approval from creditors, was initially approved by a single member of the NCLT, but a five-member special bench ruled that the decision lacked majority support. The bench, including both judicial and technical members, has now ordered a stay on Chandra's asset transfers and will reassess the repayment plan. The next hearing is set for 23 September, and the outcome will determine whether the plan binds dissenting creditors. Several major financial institutions, including HDFC Bank and Axis Bank, opposed the plan, though they have not responded to queries from media outlets.

Bias read (Center): The article presents a balanced account of the legal proceedings involving Subhash Chandra and the NCLT's decision to revisit the repayment plan. It reports on the procedural aspects of the tribunal's ruling, the composition of the bench, and the reactions of various stakeholders without overtly sl抗

Why factuality (90): The article accurately describes the NCLT's stay of the August 25 order, citing the five-member bench's decision and the asset restraint on Chandra. It references the 6.5 crore repayment plan and the legal process, matching the primary source document closely.

Why objectivity (85): The article maintains a balanced tone, reporting the legal developments without apparent bias. It presents the actions of the NCLT and the implications for creditors neutrally.

The Wire logoThe WireIndependentCenterFactual 90Objective 8511 days ago
NCLT Allows Zees Subhash Chandra to Repay Just Rs 6.5 Crore Against Rs 22,006-Crore Dues

The National Company Law Tribunal (NCLT) has permitted Zee Entertainment Enterprises Ltd., owned by Subhash Chandra, to repay only Rs 6.5 crore towards its outstanding dues of Rs 22,006 crore. This decision allows the company to avoid paying the full amount owed, raising questions about the enforcement of financial obligations under corporate law. The ruling highlights potential loopholes in debt recovery mechanisms and could set a precedent for other companies facing similar financial challenges. It also brings attention to the legal processes involved in resolving corporate debts.

Bias read (Center): The article presents a factual report on a legal decision made by the NCLT regarding corporate debt repayment. There is no evident framing that favors one side over another; the focus is on the legal process and its implications rather than political ideology or bias. The content does not show signs

Why factuality (90): This article is identical in content to the previous one, accurately reflecting the NCLT's decision regarding Subhash Chandra's debt reduction. No new information is introduced, and it maintains consistency with the cross-source consensus.

Why objectivity (85): As with the previous article, this piece maintains a neutral tone and presents the NCLT ruling as a factual update without editorializing or showing preference toward either party.

The Wire logoThe WireIndependentCenterFactual 90Objective 8511 days ago
NCLT Allows Zees Subhash Chandra to Repay Just Rs 6.5 Crore Against Rs 22,006-Crore Dues

The National Company Law Tribunal (NCLT) has allowed Zee Entertainment Enterprises' chairman, Subhash Chandra, to repay just Rs 6.5 crore against his outstanding debt of Rs 22,006 crore. This decision comes after a legal dispute over the repayment terms, which were initially set at Rs 1,387 crore. The ruling allows for a significantly reduced payment amount, raising questions about the financial obligations and potential implications for the company's stability. The case highlights ongoing challenges in corporate debt resolution and the complexities of large-scale financial restructuring.

Bias read (Center): The article presents the legal decision by the NCLT without overtly favoring either the debtor or creditor side. It reports the outcome of a legal process and the reduction in repayment amount based on tribunal guidelines, without expressing strong ideological or partisan perspectives. The framing,雖

Why factuality (90): The article accurately reports the NCLT decision reducing Subhash Chandra's debt liability from ₹22,006 crore to ₹6.5 crore. This aligns with the cross-source consensus and does not include any unsupported claims or distortions of the legal outcome.

Why objectivity (85): The article presents the NCLT ruling as a factual update without taking sides or injecting emotional language. It remains neutral in tone and focuses solely on reporting the legal decision without commentary or bias.

Hindustan Times logoHindustan TimesIndependentCenterFactual 88Objective 856 days ago
NCLT sets up special bench to review Subhash Chandra repayment plan

The National Company Law Tribunal (NCLT) has established a new five-member special bench to reassess Subhash Chandra's repayment plan, following disagreements among the initial three-member panel. The case centers on whether Chandra, founder of the Zee Group, is personally liable for loans taken by Essel and Zee-linked companies. Lenders such as LIC Housing Finance, HDFC Bank, and Union Bank of India have challenged the NCLT's earlier ruling, arguing that the tribunal failed to reach a consensus on the repayment plan's application. The NCLT noted that one member favored applying the plan only to supporting creditors, while another advocated for universal applicability, leading to conflicting implications for dissenting creditors. Chandra's proposed repayment plan involves paying ₹6.5 crore, with ₹6.25 crore allocated to creditors and ₹25 lakh for insolvency costs. Despite opposition from major banks, the plan received 80.81% support by value.

Bias read (Center): The article presents the legal developments surrounding Subhash Chandra's repayment plan in an objective manner, detailing both the differing opinions within the NCLT and the reactions from creditors. It does not take a clear ideological stance, instead focusing on the procedural aspects of the case

Why factuality (88): The article accurately outlines the formation of the five-member bench, the referral process, and the legal arguments from creditors. It mentions the 6.5 crore repayment plan and the disagreement within the tribunal, aligning with the primary source.

Why objectivity (85): The article presents the facts without evident bias, focusing on the procedural aspects of the case and the legal challenges faced by creditors.

India Today logoIndia TodayIndependentCenterFactual 88Objective 857 days ago
What 'haircut' means in insolvency and how it applies to Subhash Chandra's case

The National Company Law Tribunal (NCLT) has approved Subhash Chandra's personal insolvency repayment plan, where he is to repay approximately Rs 6.25 crore against admitted claims totaling Rs 22,006.57 crore. This results in a recovery rate of just 0.03%, leading to a 99.97% haircut, which has drawn criticism from lenders. Chandra disputes the interpretation of the Rs 22,000-crore figure, arguing it represents personal guarantees for loans taken by Essel Group companies, not personal borrowing. The article explains that a 'haircut' refers to the portion of a claim not recovered during insolvency proceedings and clarifies that creditors often accept haircuts when alternatives like liquidation offer lower returns. It notes that large haircuts are not uncommon in India's insolvency cases.

Bias read (Center): The article presents information about a financial dispute involving a prominent businessman and provides explanations of legal and economic concepts without overtly favoring any political ideology. While the subject involves high-profile individuals and corporate finance, the framing remains fact-f

Why factuality (88): The article accurately reports the five-member bench's stay of the August 25 order, referencing the 99.9% haircut and the asset restraint on Chandra. It aligns with the primary source and provides context about the legal process.

Why objectivity (85): The tone remains neutral, presenting the legal developments and implications without apparent bias.

India Today logoIndia TodayIndependentCenterFactual 85Objective 759 days ago
We sold our house: Subhash Chandra says Essel repaid Rs 43,000 crore

Subhash Chandra, chairman of the Essel Group, has defended his personal insolvency proceedings and clarified that the Rs 22,006 crore claim figure does not reflect personal debt he incurred but rather guarantees for loans taken by affiliated companies. In a video statement, he stated that he and his family sold personal assets, including their home, to fulfill repayment obligations following the group's financial crisis in 2019. Chandra asserted that the Essel Group has repaid approximately Rs 43,000 crore of the Rs 45,000 crore it owed, leaving around Rs 2,000 crore still outstanding due to delays caused by asset-liability mismatches. He emphasized that the remaining liability is tied to companies within the group and not directly to him. Chandra also mentioned that his current financial situation is significantly less than during the height of his career, with only Rs 6.5 crore in liquid assets and a small residential property.

Bias read (Center): The article presents Subhash Chandra's statements regarding his personal insolvency and repayment of debts without overtly favoring any side. It includes his claims and the context of the NCLT-approved resolution plan, while also noting criticisms from lenders. There is no clear ideological framing,

Why factuality (85): The article provides detailed information about Subhash Chandra's personal insolvency proceedings, including figures like Rs 22,006 crore and Rs 43,000 crore. It references the NCLT approval of a resolution plan and mentions lender criticisms. These details align with typical reporting on such cases

Why objectivity (75): The article presents Chandra's statements and the situation surrounding his debt and potential job in Switzerland. While it reports facts neutrally, there is a slight emphasis on the controversy and lender criticisms, which may lean towards a more critical tone. The language used to describe the sit

The Hindu logoThe HinduIndependentCenterFactual 80Objective 755 days ago
In personal insolvency case before NCLAT, Subhash Chandra opposes formation of 5-member NCLT bench

In a personal insolvency case involving Essel Group Chairman Subhash Chandra, the National Company Law Tribunal (NCLT) formed a five-member bench to review the case, but Chandra and his legal representative, Senior Advocate Sasmit Patra, opposed this move. They argued that the NCLT lacks the legal authority to establish such a bench and that the existing rulings by two members, Ashok Kumar Bhardwaj and Nilesh Sharma, are consistent on key issues like repayment plans and eligibility under Section 79 of the Companies Act, 2013. The NCLT had previously stayed an order allowing Chandra to settle approximately ₹6.5 crore in claims against total debts of around ₹22,006 crore. Solicitor General Tushar Mehta, representing dissenting creditors including banks and housing finance companies, suggested the case involves conflicting interpretations and might warrant further examination by a larger bench. However, Patra emphasized that the relevant provisions of the Companies Act do not empower the NCLT to create a five-member bench.

Bias read (Center): The article presents both sides of the legal argument regarding the formation of a five-member bench in the NCLT. It includes statements from Subhash Chandra's legal team opposing the bench and from dissenting creditors supporting further examination. There is no evident bias toward one side, and no

Why factuality (80): The article accurately describes Subhash Chandra's opposition to the five-member bench and the legal arguments presented. It references the primary source regarding the asset freeze and the formation of the bench. However, it cuts off mid-sentence, potentially omitting important context.

Why objectivity (75): While the article presents both sides of the argument, it leans slightly towards highlighting Subhash Chandra's position and the legal challenges he faces, which may introduce a subtle bias in favor of the debtor's perspective.

The Hindu logoThe HinduIndependentCenterFactual 75Objective 806 days ago
NCLT's first-ever 5-member Bench to decide on Subhash Chandra repayment plan

The National Company Law Tribunal (NCLT) has formed a historic five-member bench to resolve a personal insolvency case against media mogul Subhash Chandra. The case involves claims exceeding ₹22,000 crore, and the initial two-member division bench failed to reach a majority decision on a proposed ₹6.5 crore repayment plan. The division bench referred the matter to the tribunal's president after a third judge issued an order supporting the repayment plan, which led to conflicting interpretations. The new five-member bench, including President Justice Anupinder Singh Grewal, will begin hearings on Tuesday. Dissenting lenders have taken legal action through the NCLAT, arguing that the third member's approval of the repayment plan undermines the Insolvency & Bankruptcy Code.

Bias read (Center): The article presents the procedural developments in a legal case without overtly favoring any political side. It reports on the formation of a new bench, the legal arguments from both sides, and the implications for the Insolvency & Bankruptcy Code without taking a clear ideological stance. While it

Why factuality (75): The article briefly mentions the referral to the NCLT President and the potential need for a third member, but lacks specific details about the case or the repayment plan. It aligns with the broader context of the primary source but is less detailed.

Why objectivity (80): The tone is neutral, focusing on the procedural steps without taking sides. However, the brevity limits the ability to assess full objectivity.

NDTV logoNDTVParty-alignedCenterFactual 75Objective 809 days ago
Union Bank To Challenge Approval Of Subhash Chandra's Insolvency Plan

Union Bank of India, alongside other creditors such as Canara Bank and LIC Housing Finance, has voted against the insolvency resolution plan proposed by Subhash Chandra. The banks expressed opposition to the plan's approval before the National Company Law Tribunal (NCLT). This indicates disagreement among financial institutions regarding the viability or terms of the proposed restructuring plan for the company involved.

Bias read (Center): The article presents factual information about the voting stance of creditors against a specific resolution plan without overtly endorsing or criticizing any particular political faction or ideology. It focuses on the procedural and legal aspects of the insolvency process rather than taking a clear,

Why factuality (75): The article reports that Union Bank of India, along with other creditors, voted against the resolution plan. This aligns with the cross-source consensus that multiple creditors opposed the plan. However, the lack of a primary source document makes it difficult to verify specific details such as the

Why objectivity (80): The article presents the information in a neutral tone, reporting the actions of Union Bank and other creditors without apparent bias. It does not include subjective commentary or emotional language, maintaining a balanced perspective.

The Indian Express logoThe Indian ExpressIndependentCenterFactual 75Objective 6010 days ago
Rs 6.5 crore payout: What Subhash Chandra’s order means for India’s struggling insolvency mechanism

The article discusses a recent ruling by Subhash Chandra regarding a Rs 6.5 crore payout, which has implications for India's insolvency resolution process. This decision comes at a time when the country's insolvency mechanisms are facing challenges and scrutiny. The ruling could influence how future insolvency cases are handled, potentially affecting creditors and debtors alike. It highlights ongoing concerns about the efficiency and fairness of India's financial restructuring framework.

Bias read (Center): The article appears to present the ruling and its potential impact on the insolvency mechanism without overtly favoring any particular side. It focuses on the implications of the legal decision rather than taking a stance on the matter.

Why factuality (75): The article discusses the Rs 6.5 crore payout related to Subhash Chandra’s order and analyzes its implications for India’s insolvency mechanism. While it references a specific amount and decision-maker, there is no primary source document to verify the exact details of the payout or the full context

Why objectivity (60): The tone leans towards critical commentary on the insolvency system, using phrases like 'struggling insolvency mechanism' which may imply a negative judgment. The focus on the financial impact suggests a particular perspective rather than presenting multiple viewpoints.

NDTV logoNDTVParty-alignedCenterFactual 70Objective 807 days ago
Tribunal Hurdle To Subhash Chandra's Rs 22,000 Crore Debt Cut

The article reports that a tribunal case involving Subhash Chandra's debt reduction of Rs 22,000 crore has been sent back to the NCLT President due to differing opinions among the panel members. The President now has the authority to either appoint a third member or issue a directive to achieve a majority decision.

Bias read (Center): The article presents procedural developments in a legal case without overtly favoring any particular side. It focuses on the administrative process rather than taking a stance on the merits of the debt reduction or the parties involved.

Why factuality (70): The article focuses primarily on the concept of 'haircut' in insolvency and explains it in general terms. While it touches on the Chandra case, it does not provide detailed information about the repayment plan or the current status of the case.

Why objectivity (80): The tone is informative and educational, explaining the legal concept without taking a stance on the case itself.

The Wire logoThe WireIndependentCenterFactual 60Objective 706 days ago
Subhash Chandra Case: NCLT Order Indicates Its Last President Took Five Months to Appoint Third Member

The article reports on the Subhash Chandra case, highlighting an order from the National Company Law Tribunal (NCLT) indicating that the last president of the organization took five months to appoint a third member. This delay has raised concerns about governance and procedural adherence within the organization.

Bias read (Center): The article presents factual information regarding the procedural delays in appointments by the last president of the organization. It does not take a clear ideological stance or emphasize particular viewpoints, maintaining a balanced presentation of the issue.

Why factuality (60): This article appears incomplete and lacks specific details about the case or the NCLT's actions. It fails to reference the primary source document or provide sufficient context about the repayment plan or legal proceedings.

Why objectivity (70): The tone is somewhat vague and lacks depth, but it doesn't appear overtly biased. However, due to lack of information, objectivity cannot be fully assessed.

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