SC Directs HC Not to Hear Criminal Cases Amid Controversy

Lucknow, Monday, August 12, 2025:
The Allahabad High Court (HC) judge, Justice Prashant Kumar, who recently faced criticism from the Supreme Court (SC), has been directed to hear only civil cases alongside a senior colleague. The SC instructed that Justice Kumar should not preside over any criminal cases.

The decision comes after the apex court expressed concerns about the handling of certain criminal matters by Justice Kumar. The Supreme Court bench restricted Justice Kumar to civil case jurisdiction, as controversy over his judicial decisions continues.

This directive aims to ensure judicial propriety and maintain public confidence in the legal system. Justice Kumar will work with senior judges from the Allahabad High Court and the Lucknow Bench to comply with the SC’s orders.

The new roster change follows a petition and complaints highlighting alleged irregularities in criminal case handling. The SC emphasized that Justice Kumar must avoid criminal matters to prevent any further legal complications.

As per the new guidelines, Justice Kumar will attend meetings with Chief Justice Arup Bhattacharya and other senior judges to discuss future assignments and judicial administration.

The High Court aims to streamline the judicial process and ensure careful, impartial handling of criminal cases through this move.

Source