The Delhi High Court on Tuesday concluded a petition filed by advocate Rajiv Khosla, concerning the delay in finalising rules for appointing Local Commissioners and Court Receivers. The hearing, which saw active participation from members of the Delhi Bar, felt at moments like an in-house conversation within the legal community-sharp, candid, and somewhat emotional.
Background
The case arose after lawyers expressed concerns over lack of clarity and uniformity in the rules for appointing Local Commissioners-individuals often tasked with on-ground inquiries, sealing premises, recording evidence, and handling sensitive case-related duties. According to Khosla, the delay in formalising these rules had led to inconsistency and confusion across courts.
During the proceedings, the High Court acknowledged that the rules for appointments in the High Court itself had already been finalised. However, the rules applicable to the District Courts were still awaiting approval from the Lieutenant Governor of Delhi.
Court’s Observations
The Bench, headed by the Chief Justice, noted that the formal notification for High Court matters was issued on 02 September 2025. This notification, the Bench suggested, should be properly communicated to all Bar Associations to ensure lawyers across Delhi are aware of the standardised framework.
“The bench observed, ‘Since the High Court rules stand notified, the remaining formality relates to the District Court rules, and we hope the approval is granted at the earliest.’”
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There was also a subtle but firm tone from the court indicating that administrative delays at the executive level should not hold up judicial clarity.
Representatives of the Delhi High Court Bar Association and New Delhi Bar Association were present, listening with noticeable attentiveness. One senior advocate quietly remarked after the hearing, “At least now there is movement. We just needed closure.”
Decision
The Court disposed of the petition while expressing hope that the Lieutenant Governor would expedite approval of rules concerning District Courts. It also directed that the High Court’s already-notified rules be circulated among all Bar Associations without delay.
The Standing Counsel for the government has been tasked to formally communicate this direction to the Lieutenant Governor.
The matter ended there, with the Court not issuing further directions.
Case: Rajiv Khosla v. High Court of Delhi & Anr. – Appointment Rules for Local Commissioners
Court: Delhi High Court
Bench: Chief Justice & Justice Tushar Rao Gedela
Petitioner: Advocate Rajiv Khosla (appeared in person)
Respondents:
- High Court of Delhi
- Delhi High Court Bar Association (DHCBA) represented through senior counsel
