<s>[INST] What happens if a party fails to file pleadings in India within the prescribed time? [/INST] If a party whether the plaintiff or defendantfails to file the required pleadings within the prescribed time framethe court may take various actionsincluding: Proceeding ex-parte: If the plaintiff fails to file the plaint or the defendant fails to file the written statementthe court may proceed with the case ex-partemeaning it will consider the claims or defenses of the non-defaulting party. Striking off pleadings: In certain casesthe court may strike off the pleadings of the defaulting partyeffectively preventing them from participating further in the case. It's crucial for parties to adhere to the prescribed timelines for filing pleadings to avoid adverse consequences. </s>