The Bombay High Court deferred a 2017 defamation case to 2046, calling it an “ego fight” between elderly litigants. The court said such disputes waste judicial time and delay more urgent cases.

The Bombay High Court has strongly criticised a long-running defamation case, describing it as an “ego fight” between elderly litigants that unnecessarily burdens the judicial system. The case, originally filed in 2017 by nearly 90-year-old Tarinibahen Desai against Kilkilraj Bhansali, has now been deferred until 2046, effectively placing it on hold for two decades.

The bench, led by Justice Jitendra Jain, observed that such personal disputes consume valuable court time and delay the resolution of more urgent and significant cases. The court noted that despite earlier suggestions to resolve the matter amicably through mutual apologies, the petitioner chose to continue litigation, leading to further delays and judicial strain.

Highlighting the broader issue of court backlogs, the High Court made it clear that the case would not be prioritised, even considering the advanced age of the parties involved. The bench stated that such disputes at the “fag end” of life do not warrant extended judicial attention when more pressing matters demand immediate focus.

By deferring the case until 2046, the court sent a strong message about the need for responsible litigation and efficient use of judicial resources. The decision underscores ongoing concerns about case backlogs in India and the importance of resolving minor personal conflicts outside the courtroom whenever possible.