Ministry of Corporate Affairs
The Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code, 2016 (IBC Code), is a comprehensive legislation that consolidates and amends the laws relating to reorganization and insolvency resolution of corporate persons, partnership firms, and individuals. It replaces outdated laws and aims to streamline the insolvency and bankruptcy process, maximizing the value of assets of debtors and promoting entrepreneurship and credit availability. The Code introduces time-bound resolution processes, establishes an Insolvency and Bankruptcy Board of India (IBBI) for oversight, and provides for the liquidation of assets when resolution is not feasible. A key objective is to balance the interests of all stakeholders, including debtors, creditors, and employees. This Act falls under the Ministry of Corporate Affairs.
Enactment Date, Number of Chapters, Number of Sections:
The IBC Code was enacted on May 28, 2016, with different parts coming into force on different dates. It consists of five parts, numerous chapters, and a substantial number of sections, some of which have been amended or omitted over time.
Act Governed By:
The Code’s implementation is overseen by the IBBI, which regulates insolvency professionals, agencies, and information utilities. The National Company Law Tribunal (NCLT) serves as the Adjudicating Authority for corporate persons, while the Debt Recovery Tribunal (DRT) handles cases for individuals and partnership firms. The National Company Law Appellate Tribunal (NCLAT) and the Debt Recovery Appellate Tribunal (DRAT) handle appeals. The Supreme Court is the final court of appeal.
On Whom It Is Applicable:
The Code applies to corporate persons (companies, limited liability partnerships), partnership firms, and individuals, including personal guarantors to corporate debtors. It covers various aspects of insolvency and bankruptcy, including initiation of proceedings, moratorium, appointment of professionals, resolution plans, liquidation, and distribution of assets.
Penalties/Punishments:
The Code prescribes penalties, including imprisonment and fines, for offenses such as concealment of property, fraudulent trading, falsification of records, and non-compliance with the Code’s provisions.
Important Pointers:
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Introduces time-bound insolvency resolution processes for corporate debtors.
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Establishes the Insolvency and Bankruptcy Board of India (IBBI) for regulatory oversight.
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Provides for the appointment of insolvency professionals to manage the insolvency resolution process and liquidation.
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Establishes a committee of creditors to make decisions regarding the future of the corporate debtor.
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Allows for the submission and approval of resolution plans to revive the corporate debtor.
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Provides for liquidation of the corporate debtor’s assets when resolution is not feasible.
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Includes provisions for bankruptcy of individuals and partnership firms.
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Establishes a fresh start process for eligible individuals with smaller debts.
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Addresses cross-border insolvency through agreements with other countries.
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Amends several other laws related to insolvency and bankruptcy.