A series of transition metal complexes of the type [MLX2], where M = Mn(II), Fe(II), Co(II), Ni(II), X = Cl–/CH3COO– and L = Schiff base
derived from 4-nitrobenzene-1,2-diamine and 5-chloroisatin have been synthesized and characterized by elemental analysis, molar conductance,
IR, UV-visible, magnetic moments measurement, 1H & 13C NMR and mass spectral studies. On the basis of physico-chemical studies and
spectral evaluation, an octahedral geometry have been proposed for all metal(II) complexes. The antimicrobial activity of ligand and its metal
complexes have been additionally screened against bacteria and fungi. Metal(II) complexes show good activity as compared to ligand towards
studied microorganisms and also metal complexes checked for their catalytic properties for benzoylation of phenol.