The courtroom felt unusually packed when the Supreme Court took up a long-pending criminal appeal filed by the State of Karnataka against a private respondent. Lawyers from across the country filled the benches, some standing along the aisles. After hearing all sides at length, the bench chose not to pronounce anything immediately and reserved the matter for orders.
The case, though procedural on the surface, has drawn wide attention because of the issues involved and the number of States that chose to appear and assist the court.
Background
The appeal before the Supreme Court arises from a 2015 order of the Karnataka High Court’s Dharwad Circuit Bench. The State of Karnataka, along with another petitioner, challenged that High Court decision by filing a Special Leave Petition in a criminal matter.
Over the years, the case gathered momentum. Several States, Union Territories, and constitutional authorities entered appearance, either to support the legal position or to place their views before the court. Senior advocates and law officers were present in large numbers, reflecting the wider implications the matter may have beyond Karnataka.
Court’s Observations
The bench, comprising Justice Sanjay Karol and Justice Nongmeikapam Kotiswar Singh, patiently heard arguments from both sides. Submissions ranged from factual aspects of the High Court’s order to broader questions touching criminal procedure.
At one point, the bench indicated that it wanted clarity rather than repetition, nudging counsel to stay focused. “We have heard you at length,” the court remarked, as arguments stretched across the session. Legal points were explained and countered in detail, with senior lawyers stepping in to address specific concerns raised by the judges.
Importantly, the court did not pass any interim directions during the hearing, signalling that it wanted to examine the matter in full before reaching a conclusion.
Decision
After hearing learned senior counsel and advocates appearing for all parties, the Supreme Court formally reserved the case for judgment. The brief order recorded that the matter was heard and that the court would pronounce its decision at a later date.
Case Title: The State of Karnataka & Anr. vs. Prathik Parasrampuria The State of Karnataka
Case No.: Special Leave Petition (Criminal) No. 3549 of 2016
Case Type: Criminal Appeal (Special Leave Petition)
Decision Date: Order Reserved on 19 December 2025
