2020 (1) TMI 1447 - Tri - Companies Law

Approval of scheme of amalgamation - section 230-232 of Companies Act, 2013, and other applicable provisions of the Companies Act, 2013 read with Companies (Compromises, Arrangements and Amalgamations) Rules, 2016 - HELD THAT - Taking into consideration the application filed by the Applicant Companies and the documents filed therewith as well as the position of law, this Tribunal propose to issue the various directions and issue of notices including by way of paper publication, subject to directions issued. The scheme is approved - application allowed.

Summary

Issues involved:
Application for Scheme of Amalgamation under sections 230-232 of Companies Act, 2013 - Directions for convening meetings of Shareholders, Secured Creditors, and Unsecured Creditors - Compliance with Companies Act, 2013 and Rules - Approval of Scheme - Dispensation with holding meetings based on consents obtained - Detailed examination of Applicant Companies' financial and legal standing.

Detailed Analysis:

1. Application for Scheme of Amalgamation:
The Companies, Transferor and Transferee, filed applications under sections 230-232 of the Companies Act, 2013, along with applicable provisions and rules, for a Scheme of Amalgamation. The Scheme was annexed to the applications seeking reliefs for convening meetings of Shareholders, Secured Creditors, and Unsecured Creditors. The applications were supported by affidavits and representations of the Directors of both companies, emphasizing compliance with legal requirements.

2. Compliance and Consent Obtained:
The Transferee Company had obtained consents from all Equity Shareholders and the sole Secured Creditor, seeking dispensation with holding meetings. The Transferee Company also had multiple Unsecured Creditors, necessitating a meeting. The Tribunal noted the compliance with obtaining consents through affidavits and the need for a meeting for Unsecured Creditors.

3. Financial Standing of Companies:
Details regarding the Authorized Share Capital, Issued Capital, and incorporation information of both Transferor and Transferee Companies were presented. The Memorandum and Articles of Association, along with the last available Audited Annual Accounts, were filed by the Applicant Companies, showcasing their financial standing.

4. Approval and Directions by Tribunal:
The Board of Directors of both companies unanimously approved the proposed Scheme, setting the Appointed date as 1st April 2019. The Statutory Auditors certified compliance with Accounting Standards. The Tribunal issued detailed directions for convening and conducting meetings, specifying quorum, appointment of Chairperson and Scrutinizer, notice requirements, publication of advertisements, voting procedures, and compliance with legal provisions.

5. Compliance and Conclusion:
The Tribunal emphasized strict compliance with applicable laws, rules, and formats in executing the directions issued. The Application was allowed on specified terms, ensuring adherence to the legal framework governing the amalgamation process. The judgment provided a comprehensive roadmap for the necessary steps to be taken by the Applicant Companies to proceed with the Scheme of Amalgamation effectively.