Specialized tribunals and agencies regulate companies, protecting public markets and resolving complex disputes.
1. NCLT & NCLAT: Fast-Track Dispute Resolution
The National Company Law Tribunal (NCLT) and National Company Law Appellate Tribunal (NCLAT) were established under Chapter XXVII of the Companies Act to consolidate multiple corporate tribunals (such as the Company Law Board and BIFR) into a single unified judicial system.
- NCLT Jurisdiction: Hears matters relating to incorporation, alteration of charter documents, reduction of capital, oppression and mismanagement, and insolvency cases under the IBC.
- NCLAT Jurisdiction: Hears appeals from the orders of NCLT. Appeals from NCLAT lie directly to the Supreme Court of India.
2. Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI)
The primary regulator of public listed companies and capital markets. SEBI protects the interests of investors in securities and regulates stock exchanges, listing requirements, insider trading, and substantial acquisitions of shares.
3. Registrar of Companies (ROC) & MCA
The Ministry of Corporate Affairs (MCA) administers the Act. The ROC is the field office responsible for registering companies, inspecting statutory filings, and ensuring statutory compliance under the Act.