NCLAT Stays Direction on RP Fee in SBI Appeal Against Former IRP

The National Company Law Appellate Tribunal (Principal Bench, New Delhi) has stayed directions issued by the Adjudicating Authority requiring payment of fees to the erstwhile Interim Resolution Professional (IRP) of Aditya Prints Private Limited.

Dispute Over RP Fees Between Liquidation Application and Order

In Comp. App. (AT) (Ins) No. 414 of 2026, the State Bank of India challenged the order directing payment to Mr. Gordhan Ratanbhai Godhani, the former IRP. The Appellant submitted that the Resolution Professional had already been paid up to 12 August 2022, the date on which the liquidation application was filed. The liquidation order was later passed on 28 July 2023. SBI argued that for the intervening period (12.08.2022 to 28.07.2023), payment could be made only in accordance with the decision of the Committee of Creditors, as contemplated under Regulation 34B(3) of the CIRP Regulations, 2016. However, the Adjudicating Authority had accepted the RP’s submission that he was entitled to the same fee as earlier and directed payment within seven days.

NCLAT Issues Notice and Grants Interim Stay

The Appellate Tribunal found that the Appellant’s submissions required consideration. It permitted SBI to file an additional affidavit placing on record the Committee’s decision regarding payment for the disputed period. Notice has been issued, with replies to be filed within three weeks. Rejoinder, if any, may be filed before the next date. Importantly, the NCLAT has stayed the operation of the impugned directions pending further hearing. The matter is listed for 15 April 2026.