SC Orders Probe into 3-Year Delay in Case Listing
The Supreme Court has sharply criticized its Registry for failing to list a petition for over three years, despite a direct court order to do so immediately after service of notice.
Background of the Case
The petition was filed in 2022 by a complainant challenging bail granted by the Madras High Court to a former minister in a sexual assault case. The court had instructed that once notice was served — which happened in May 2022 — the Registry should list the matter without delay.
What Actually Happened
Instead of listing it soon after service, the petition remained unlisted until September 2025. By then, the High Court had quashed the case following a settlement between the parties. As a result, the Supreme Court declared the petition “infructuous” but expressed concern about the administrative lapse.
Court Directs Enquiry
A bench led by Justices J.K. Maheshwari and Vijay Bishnoi has ordered the Registrar (Judicial) to conduct an inquiry and submit a report within two weeks. The enquiry must identify which officer(s) were responsible for the failure to follow the court’s order.
Concerns Over Registry Accountability
The court’s strong remarks indicate growing concern about procedural failures within the Supreme Court Registry. The incident underscores the need for accountability in ensuring court orders are implemented without avoidable delays.
