Double Standards in justice:Ambani vs MSMEs

Mathews J. Nedumpara

98205 35428

17.07.2025.

 

*Press Release*

(Double Standards in justice:Ambani vs MSMEs)

 

In my experience of over four decades as a lawyer—and even earlier, as a litigant—I can say without hesitation that in our country, the common man does not get justice. The elite and the super-rich can buy justice. Some may accuse me of contempt of court for saying so openly, but that is the unfortunate truth. I say this not to scandalize the institution, but because I believe that much-needed reforms in the judiciary are impossible unless the common man is made aware of the deep deficiencies in our justice delivery system. Sunlight, as they say, is the best disinfectant.

 

The MSMED Act, along with the Notification dated 29.05.2015, prohibits banks and financial institutions from initiating recovery action against MSMEs in financial stress without first affording them an opportunity for resolution and rehabilitation. However, not a single bank or financial institution has given effect to this mandate. Instead, in flagrant violation of the law, they have forcibly taken possession of the homes and industrial units of MSME owners.

 

When these MSMEs approached the courts seeking relief, their petitions were routinely dismissed on wholly untenable grounds. In stark contrast, the big and mighty—except in a few rare cases—have been granted reliefs that would shock the conscience of any right-thinking citizen.

 

One glaring example is the NCLT Bench-I in Mumbai, which approved a resolution plan for Anil Ambani, submitted by his brother Mukesh Ambani, settling dues of over ₹49,000 crores for just ₹455 crores—an effective recovery of only 92 paise per ₹100—from 53 banks. In another case, dues of over ₹1 lakh crore were settled at just 35 paise per ₹100. These are not allegations—they are undeniable facts.

 

The public has a right to know these truths. I have repeatedly brought these issues to the attention of the Hon’ble Supreme Court and various High Courts—not out of malice, but out of a deep sense of duty and good faith.

 

– Mathews J. Nedumpara

Advocate & President

National Lawyers’ Campaign for Judicial Transparency and Reforms