⏱ A SARFAESI Section 17 application to the DRT must be filed within 45 days of the bank's action. Don't miss it.
SARFAESI Act, 2002 · RDB Act, 1993

Bank coming after your assets?
Defend the SARFAESI action

Received a 60-day demand notice, or facing possession or auction of your secured asset? Reply under Section 13(3A), challenge the action before the DRT under Section 17, and map your defence strategy. Lenders can draft their DRT recovery application too.

60 days
Sec 13(2) notice period
15 days
Bank's reply to 13(3A)
45 days
To file Sec 17 at DRT
₹20 L+
DRT recovery threshold

Know where you stand — and your deadline

Sec 13(2) Notice60-day demand
Sec 13(3A)your representation
Sec 13(4)possession / sale
Sec 17 to DRTwithin 45 days
DRAT Appealwith pre-deposit

Borrower defence & lender recovery

Important. These products are document preparation aids based on the information you supply. They are not legal advice or an opinion under the Advocates Act, 1961, and are not a substitute for advice from a qualified advocate on your facts. SARFAESI / DRT timelines are short and fatal — confirm your dates and limitation carefully, and engage counsel for tribunal representation. All deliverables reference Indian law and Indian rupees (₹).

Frequently asked questions

What is a SARFAESI Section 13(2) notice?

It is a demand notice issued by a secured creditor (bank, NBFC or ARC) requiring repayment of the full secured debt within 60 days, before enforcement measures are taken under Section 13(4).

How do I challenge a bank’s possession or auction?

A borrower can file a Securitisation Application under Section 17 of the SARFAESI Act before the Debts Recovery Tribunal (DRT) within 45 days of the measure, and seek an interim stay.

What is a Section 13(3A) representation?

It is the borrower’s right to object to the Section 13(2) demand notice; the secured creditor must consider it and communicate reasons for non-acceptance within 15 days.

When can a bank approach the DRT for recovery?

A bank or financial institution can file an Original Application before the DRT to recover a debt of ₹20 lakh or more under the Recovery of Debts and Bankruptcy Act, 1993.

Can I settle the loan instead of litigating?

Yes. A One-Time Settlement (OTS) proposal to the lender can close a stressed or NPA account for a negotiated lump sum — our OTS proposal letter tool helps you make the offer.