Court Rejects Poverty, Illiteracy as Justification for Four-Year Legal Delay

The court’s ruling came after a petition was filed alleging that the defendant’s four‑year delay in responding to a summons was due to poverty, illiteracy and ignorance of the law. The judge rejected these defenses, stating that such circumstances do not automatically excuse a failure to comply with court timelines. The decision emphasizes that parties are expected to seek legal assistance and adhere to procedural deadlines regardless of personal hardships. The judgment may serve as a precedent in future cases where defendants claim socio‑economic barriers as a basis for delay.