how long can one go short?

if i short sell a particular stock / index, how long can i remain in that position? if i dont square off my position after settlement period [ T+2 or T+3 whatever ], what are the consequences? is there any option to continue in that position even after settlement period by paying some fees / margin?

thanks

If you short sell a stock, you have to square it off on that day itself. If you dont, you have to make delivery of the stock. If you dont make delivery, an auction is held to make good your non delivery of the stock. If no stock is received in the auction, refer to this link.. http://www.nseindia.com/content/nsccl/nsccl_eqcloseout.htm

thanks for the information!

In derivatives - you can hold short position till the expiry of the contract.

In cash market what is said above holds true.