SC pulls up UP for not taking action unless contempt is initiated

THE APEX COURT WAS HEARING A PLEA FILED BY THE STATE GOVT AGAINST AN ALLAHABAD HIGH COURT ORDER

NEW : Delhi The Supreme Court on Friday took exception to the Uttar Pradesh government’s tendency of not taking action on issues until a contempt plea is filed against it, while hearing a case related to an 82-year-old COVID-19 patient who allegedly went missing from a hospital last year.

A bench of Chief Justice of India NV Ramana and Justices Krishna Murari and Hima Kohli told the Additional Advocate General appearing for the Uttar Pradesh government, “You don’t comply with directions, lastminute when contempt is sought, you come. It is the habit of your state.”

The apex court was hearing a plea filed by the state government challenging an order of the Allahabad High Court which summoned eight officers of the state government, including the Chief Secretary and officials from the Chief Minister’s office.

While hearing a habeas corpus petition filed by Ram Lal Yadav’s son seeking his release from the hospital’s custody, the High Court, on April 25, directed the state officials to produce the man before the Court on May 6 failing which, the state officers were to remain personally present before the Court.

The Uttar Pradesh government and eight state officers approached the apex court against the High Court’s order.

Hearing the case, the top court today issued notice on State’s petition and stayed further proceedings before the High Court.

The bench directed the State government to pay Rs 50,000 to the other party as an initial amount to cover the litigation expenses and enable them to appear before the Supreme Court. The matter will be heard in July now.