Politics · India Bureau
Supreme Court pushes Allahabad HC to act on Lakhimpur judge bias allegations
The Supreme Court has directed the Allahabad High Court chief justice to expeditiously investigate allegations that the judge presiding over the 2021 Lakhimpur Kheri violence case improperly transferred cases to himself and acquitted the accused.
LSN India ·
A three-judge bench led by Chief Justice of India Surya Kant, alongside Justices Joymalya Bagchi and V Mohana, issued the directive on Monday while hearing the high-profile case. The court simultaneously asked the Uttar Pradesh government to urgently appoint a new public prosecutor to conduct the trial.
The Supreme Court's intervention follows submissions by lawyer Prashant Bhushan, representing the victims of the 2021 incident, who raised concerns about the presiding officer's conduct. According to the submissions, the judge transferred multiple criminal cases to himself and subsequently acquitted the accused, raising questions about judicial propriety.
In an earlier hearing on September 22, the top court had asked the Allahabad High Court chief justice to investigate the matter and submit a sealed cover report after taking remedial action. Monday's order reflects the Supreme Court's growing concern over the allegations and the need for swift institutional response.
The Lakhimpur Kheri violence case dates back to 2021 and has drawn significant public attention. The apex court's intervention underscores the judicial system's commitment to ensuring fair trial procedures and maintaining public confidence in the administration of justice in sensitive matters.