JUDGMENT

M S Sonak, J. - Heard Ms. Prithvi Bandekar for the Petitioner.

2. On 22.06.2021, notice was issued in this matter and it was made clear that this petition will be disposed of at the stage of admission.

3. The record indicates that the service was completed on 09.07.2021. There is a report of the Bailiff confirming service.

4. On 27.07.2021, when the matter was called out, there was no appearance on behalf of the Respondent. Therefore, the matter was adjourned to see if the Respondent appears either by himself or through an Advocate. However, even today, the same position continues. Accordingly, this petition is taken up for final disposal, consistent with the order made on 22.06.2021.

5. Rule. The rule is made returnable forthwith.

6. The challenge in this petition is to the order dated 29.07.2019 by which the learned Trial Judge has dismissed the Petitioner's application seeking condonation of delay for filing of the written statement.

7. Ms. Bandekar the learned Counsel for the Petitioner submits that this is a matter where the Petitioner-Defendant was represented by Advocate Sunil Loran before the Trial Court. She submits that settlement talks were going on between the parties