The Allahabad High Court has raised alarm over the sluggish progress of criminal trials in Prayagraj, criticizing the district judge for disorganized management of cases.
The court highlighted the troubling neglect of undertrial prisoners held for long periods without resolution of their cases.
During a recent hearing on the bail petition of Ashfaq – who faces murder charges filed by the Dhooman Ganj police – Justice Ajay Bhanot expressed frustration over the lack of timely proceedings.
The court has called on the district judge to account for the delays in the trial process, despite earlier directives aimed at accelerating case hearings.
Ashfaq has been in custody since July 2019, yet, according to his bail application, no witnesses have brought forward for testimony in his case.
This situation reflects a broader issue, as the court has consistently noted the lethargic pace of trials in the region, with prior orders failing to bring about meaningful change.
In a previous session, the High Court sought a detailed report from the district judge on measures taken to expedite trials for defendants incarcerated for extended periods.
However, the bench deemed the response provided on 17 September regarding the trial court’s delays unsatisfactory and rejected it.
The court found that the trial court has not taken adequate steps to ensure that witnesses are present for hearings.
By 25 September, the court was informed that no witness examinations had taken place.
As a result, the High Court has demanded an updated report on the current status of the trials and actions taken to address these ongoing concerns.
Also Read: Allahabad HC Directs DGP To Explain Delays In Witness Presentations In Trial Courts
EV sales topped 4% of passenger vehicle retail in May 2025, signalling growing demand for…
One year into Modi 3.0, reforms have reduced poverty, strengthened defence, and accelerated the digital…
A recent News18 survey reveals that more than 88 per cent of Indians trust Prime…
Marking 11 years of the NDA govt at the Centre, PM Modi stated that women-led…
Team India, led by new captain Shubman Gill, has commenced training in England ahead of…
Manipur suspended internet in five districts for five days after protests over arrest of a…