Zee Learn Gets Breather as ACRE Drops CIRP Bid, NCLAT Clears Path for Withdrawal

In a significant legal development, Zee Learn Ltd. has received relief from insolvency proceedings after Assets Care & Reconstruction Enterprise Ltd. (ACRE) formally communicated its decision not to pursue the Corporate Insolvency Resolution Process (CIRP) against Digital Ventures Private Limited (DVPL), a wholly owned subsidiary of Zee Learn. The National Company Law Appellate Tribunal (NCLAT) has also permitted the withdrawal of the appeal and CIRP application, paving the way for an amicable resolution.

 

Key Highlights from July 29, 2025

Background of the Insolvency Proceedings

The insolvency saga began when Axis Bank filed a petition under Section 7 of the IBC against DVPL, citing a default of Rs 468.99 crore. The NCLT Mumbai admitted the petition and initiated CIRP. Subsequently, Axis Bank assigned the debt to ACRE via an agreement dated March 28, 2025. ACRE, as trustee of ACRE-162-TRUST, assumed the role of financial creditor.

 

However, in a letter dated June 4, 2025, ACRE informed the IRP that it does not intend to continue with the CIRP, citing constructive discussions aimed at resolving the account amicably.

 

NCLAT’s Order and Legal Implications

On July 28, 2025, NCLAT passed an order permitting the withdrawal of the appeal and CIRP application. The tribunal granted liberty to file an appropriate application before NCLT Mumbai to formalize the withdrawal under Section 12A of the IBC.

 

This provision allows withdrawal of insolvency proceedings if the Committee of Creditors (CoC) has not been constituted, and the financial creditor and corporate debtor reach a settlement.

 

The order effectively halts CIRP proceedings against DVPL

 

It restores operational control to Zee Learn and its subsidiary

 

The company can now focus on business continuity and restructuring

 

Strategic Impact on Zee Learn

Zee Learn Ltd., part of the Essel Group, operates a network of K-12 schools and pre-schools under brands like Mount Litera Zee School and Kidzee. The CIRP admission had raised concerns about business disruption and reputational damage.

 

With the withdrawal of proceedings:

 

Zee Learn avoids prolonged litigation and potential asset resolution

 

DVPL can resume normal operations and renegotiate debt terms

 

The company’s management can refocus on educational innovation and expansion

 

Market Sentiment and Stakeholder Response

Investors welcomed the development, viewing it as a sign of financial stability and governance maturity

 

Promoters and institutional stakeholders are expected to support the resolution process

 

Analysts suggest the move could improve Zee Learn’s credit profile and attract strategic partnerships

 

The resolution also reflects a broader trend of negotiated settlements in India’s insolvency landscape, where stakeholders increasingly prefer out-of-court solutions to preserve enterprise value.

 

Source: Rediff MoneyWiz – July 29, 2025