File Section 7 IBC Applications

Filing Section 7 Applications for Financial Creditors Under IBC

 

The Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code, 2016 (IBC) provides a robust legal framework for financial creditors to recover their dues from defaulting corporate debtors. Section 7 of the IBC empowers financial creditors to initiate the Corporate Insolvency Resolution Process (CIRP) against a corporate debtor when a default occurs. This provision is a powerful tool for financial institutions, banks, and other creditors to ensure timely recovery of debts while protecting their financial interests.
At AMLEGALS, we specialize in representing financial creditors in filing Section 7 applications before the National Company Law Tribunal (NCLT). Our team of expert insolvency lawyers ensures that your application is meticulously prepared, compliant with all procedural requirements, and strategically positioned for success.

Who is a Financial Creditor Under IBC?

 

financial creditor is defined under Section 5(7) of the IBC as any person to whom a financial debt is owed, including a person to whom such debt has been legally assigned or transferred. Financial debt, as per Section 5(8), includes any debt disbursed against the consideration for the time value of money, such as:

  • Loans or borrowings with interest.
  • Bonds, debentures, or other financial instruments.
  • Lease or hire purchase agreements classified as finance leases.
  • Guarantees or indemnities for financial debts.
  • Receivables sold or discounted (except on a non-recourse basis).
  • Amounts raised from allottees in real estate projects.
If you are a financial creditor owed a debt of Rs 1 crore or more, you are eligible to file a Section 7 application to initiate CIRP.
Why File a Section 7 Application?

 

Section 7 of the IBC provides financial creditors with a statutory right to initiate insolvency proceedings against a corporate debtor. The key benefits include:

  1. Time-Bound Resolution: CIRP must be completed within 180 days (extendable by 90 days), ensuring swift recovery.
  2. Moratorium Period: Once the application is admitted, a moratorium is declared, halting all recovery actions and legal proceedings against the corporate debtor.
  3. Control Over Resolution: Financial creditors play a pivotal role in the Committee of Creditors (CoC), influencing the resolution plan.
  4. Recovery of Dues: The process ensures that creditors recover their dues through a structured resolution or liquidation.

Step-by-Step Process for Filing a Section 7 Application

 

Filing a Section 7 application involves several critical steps. Here’s how AMLEGALS ensures a seamless process:

Step 1: Establishing Default The first step is to establish that the corporate debtor has defaulted on a financial debt of ₹1 crore or more. Evidence of default can include:

  • Records from an Information Utility.
  • Bank statements or loan agreements.
  • Court orders or arbitral awards confirming the debt.

Step 2: Drafting the Application (Form 1) The application must be filed in Form 1 as prescribed under the Insolvency and Bankruptcy (Application to Adjudicating Authority) Rules, 2016. The application includes:

  • Details of the financial creditor (name, address, incorporation details).
  • Details of the corporate debtor (name, registered office, share capital).
  • Particulars of the financial debt (amount, date of disbursement, date of default).
  • Name and consent of the proposed Interim Resolution Professional (IRP).

Step 3: Supporting Documents The application must be accompanied by:

  • Evidence of default (e.g., loan agreements, bank statements, Information Utility records).
  • Written consent from the proposed IRP (Form 2).
  • A verifying affidavit (Form NCLT-6).
  • A demand draft of ₹25,000 payable to the Ministry of Corporate Affairs.
Step 4: Filing the Application The completed application is filed with the NCLT bench having jurisdiction over the corporate debtor’s registered office. A copy of the application must also be sent to the corporate debtor.

Step 5: NCLT Adjudication The NCLT will review the application and decide whether to admit or reject it within 14 days. The application will be admitted if:

  • A default has occurred.
  • The application is complete.
  • There are no disciplinary proceedings against the proposed IRP.
If the application is incomplete, the NCLT will provide 7 days to rectify the defects.
Role of the Interim Resolution Professional (IRP)

 

Once the application is admitted, the NCLT appoints the proposed IRP to take charge of the corporate debtor. The IRP’s responsibilities include:

  • Taking control of the corporate debtor’s assets and operations.
  • Constituting the Committee of Creditors (CoC).
  • Inviting resolution plans from prospective bidders.
Common Challenges in Section 7 Applications

 

While Section 7 is a powerful tool, financial creditors often face challenges such as:

  • Incomplete Documentation: Missing or incorrect documents can lead to rejection.
  • Disputes Over Default: Corporate debtors may dispute the existence of a default.
  • Delays in Admission: Procedural delays can hinder the timely admission of applications.
At AMLEGALS, we address these challenges by ensuring that your application is complete, accurate, and supported by strong evidence.

How AMLEGALS can Help on Section 7 Applications?

 

  • Expertise in IBC: Our team has extensive experience in handling Section 7 applications and CIRP matters.
  • Pan-India Presence: With offices in major cities, we provide seamless representation before all NCLT benches.
  • Strategic Approach: We craft tailored strategies to maximize your chances of success.
  • Proven Track Record: We have successfully represented financial creditors in high-stakes insolvency cases.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

 

Q1: What is the minimum threshold for filing a Section 7 application?
The minimum default amount is ₹1 crore, as prescribed under Section 4 of the IBC.
Q2: Can multiple financial creditors file a joint application?
Yes, multiple financial creditors can file a joint application. They may also nominate one creditor to act on their behalf.
Q3: What happens if the NCLT rejects the application?
If the application is rejected due to defects, the NCLT provides 7 days to rectify and resubmit it.
Q4: What is the role of the Committee of Creditors (CoC)?
The CoC, comprising financial creditors, evaluates and approves resolution plans during the CIRP.
Contact AMLEGALS for Discussion

 

Filing a Section 7 application is a critical step in recovering your dues. You may contact AMLEGALS to discuss on such applications.
  • Email: info@amlegals.com
  • Boardline : +91-8448548549
  • Offices: Ahmedabad |  Bengaluru | Chennai | Mumbai | New Delhi | Kolkata | Prayagraj | Pune | Surat

© 2020-21 AMLEGALS Law Firm in Ahmedabad, Mumbai, Kolkata, New Delhi, Bengaluru for IBC, GST, Arbitration, Contract, Due Diligence, Corporate Laws, IPR, White Collar Crime, Litigation & Startup Advisory, Legal Advisory.

 

Disclaimer & Confirmation As per the rules of the Bar Council of India, law firms are not permitted to solicit work and advertise. By clicking on the “I AGREE” button below, user acknowledges the following:
    • there has been no advertisements, personal communication, solicitation, invitation or inducement of any sort whatsoever from us or any of our members to solicit any work through this website;
    • user wishes to gain more information about AMLEGALS and its attorneys for his/her own information and use;
  • the information about us is provided to the user on his/her specific request and any information obtained or materials downloaded from this website is completely at their own volition and any transmission, receipt or use of this site does not create any lawyer-client relationship; and that
  • We are not responsible for any reliance that a user places on such information and shall not be liable for any loss or damage caused due to any inaccuracy in or exclusion of any information, or its interpretation thereof.
However, the user is advised to confirm the veracity of the same from independent and expert sources.