Babbar Sewing Machine Co vs Trilok Nath Mahajan on 7 August, 1978
12. In the present context, we do not think this question is
required to be decided in this writ petition. We are inclined to agree
with the second issue recorded by the DRT and DRAT in the
impugned orders. Both of them have held that the conduct of the
respondent bank is not such that an order under Order XI, Rule 21
or similar order should be passed. The said order entails dismissal of
the claim/suit or striking out of the defence, is a stringent and penal
provision having a grave consequence on the litigation inter-se
parties. An order of dismissal of a suit or striking out of the defence
ought not to be passed unless the Court/Tribunal is satisfied that the
party concerned is wilfully or deliberately withholding information
by refusing to answer the interrogatories or withholding document
sought to be discovered. There should be obstinacy or contumacy
on the part of the said party or wilful attempt to disregard the order
of the Court (Babbar Sewing Machine Co vs. Trilok, A 1978 SC
1436; Shawney Brothers vs. Hark Kong & Shanghai Banking
Corporation (2001) 3 Punj LR 61 (64) (Del) : 2001 (93) DLT 694).