NHAI vs. Ram Krishan and others OMP(M) No. 268 of 2026 14.07.2026 Present: Ms. Shreya Chauhan, Advocate, for the applicant. Mr. Baldev Singh Negi, Additional Advocate General, for respondents No. 2 and 3. OMP(M) No. 268 of 2026 In sequel to order dated 21.05.2026, it has been reported that respondent No.1 stands duly served, but none has put in appearance on his behalf. Hence, respondent No.1 proceeded against ex parte. It is averred in the application that the certified copy of the judgment dated 02.01.2025 was applied on 14.01.2025, and the same was delivered on 24.02.2025.However, the disposal of the case was not within the knowledge of the appellant/applicant, as the same was never intimated to the appellant by its counsel. Earlier also, due to the inefficiency and lackadaisical attitude of the law firm/counsel, cases were withdrawn from the said law firm, namely, M/s M.V. Kini & Co., vide letters dated 20.09.2023. It is stated that the applicant was under the bona fide belief that the instant case was pending. It came to the knowledge of the applicant only upon closing of the financial year 2024–2025 that the objection petition pertaining to this Muhal had been disposed of. Thereafter, prompt action was taken to obtain the entire case file, and the present appeal was filed immediately. The delay in filing the appeal was due to circumstances beyond the control of the present applicants. The learned counsel for the non-applicants have no objection, in case the present application is allowed. In view of the averments as made in the application, which is duly supported by an affidavit and keeping in view the fact that the learned counsel for the non-applicants have no objection, the present application is allowed, and the delay in filing the appeal is condoned. Application stands disposed of. Arb. Appeal No.____/2026 (ARBAST No. 3925/2026) Appeal be registered. Heard. Admit. Issue post admission notice to respondent No.1, returnable within four weeks, on taking steps within three days. In the meantime, record be requisitioned. OMP No. _____of 2026 (OMPST 4020/26) Application be registered. Subject to deposit of entire awarded amount alongwith up-to-date interest by the applicant/appellant, execution, implementation and operation of impugned award dated 30.05.2023, passed by learned Arbitrator and judgment dated 02.01.2025, passed by learned District Judge, Mandi, H.P. in CIS Registration No. 71 of 2024, shall remain stayed during the pendency of appeal. Needful be done within eight weeks from today. Application stands disposed off. (Romesh Verma) Judge July 14, 2026 (Nisha)