The Allahabad High Court, through a recent judgment delivered by Hon’ble Justice Manish Kumar Nigam, has directed the Judge of Small Causes Court (J.S.C.C.), Allahabad, to expedite the hearing and disposal of a case that has remained pending since the year 2005.
The matter came before the High Court in the form of a petition filed under Article 227 of the Constitution of India. The petition was moved by the legal heirs of Soghra Begam (Deceased) against Smt. Yasmin Bano and 10 others, seeking a direction to the trial court for time-bound disposal of the case.
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The counsel for the petitioners, Krishna Kumar Chaurasia and Pramod Kumar Katiyar, submitted that:
“The original suit (No. 412 of 2005) has been pending for nearly two decades. The written statement has already been filed. However, despite multiple hearings and several dates fixed, no final decision has been reached yet.”
They prayed that the trial court be directed to conclude the matter without further delay.
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The Hon’ble Judge noted:
“No useful purpose would be served in keeping this petition pending.”
Recognizing the undue delay and the prolonged pendency of the suit, the High Court took a proactive step to ensure that justice is not denied due to procedural delays.
The court disposed of the petition with a clear direction to the Judge, Small Causes Court, Allahabad:
“To consider and decide Original Suit No. 412 of 2005 (Soghra Begam vs. Yasmin Bano and Others) in accordance with law, as expeditiously as possible, preferably within a period of eighteen months from the date a certified copy of this order is presented.”
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The court further emphasized that:
- All parties must be properly served.
- The court must provide a fair opportunity for hearing and evidence presentation to all parties.
- Unnecessary adjournments should not be allowed to either side.
- The trial must proceed without any legal obstruction if none exists.
This direction by the High Court aligns with the judiciary's broader efforts to address delays in civil litigation, especially in long-pending suits. It reflects a commitment to upholding the right to speedy justice.
Case Title: Soghra Begam (Deceased) and 2 Others vs. Smt. Yasmin Bano and 10 Others
Case Number: MATTERS UNDER ARTICLE 227 No. - 7825 of 2025
