Allahabad High Court Critiques Slow Criminal Trial Processes In Prayagraj

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