Photo used for indicative purpose only
Himachal Pradesh High Court raps Govt for ‘Hollow Promises’, Imposes Rs 10 Lakh Penalty
Shimla, April 7,
In a sharply worded order reflecting growing judicial concern over inadequate infrastructure, the Himachal Pradesh High Court has imposed a cost of Rs 10 lakh on the State government, observing that despite repeated directions, “only hollow promises have been made” and no concrete progress has been achieved in strengthening the judicial system.
The order was passed by a Division Bench comprising Chief Justice G.S. Sandhawalia and Justice Jiya Lal Bhardwaj in a suo motu public interest litigation (CWPIL No. 46 of 2023), where the Court has been monitoring the issue of judicial infrastructure and pendency of cases in the state.
Coming down heavily on the State’s inaction, the Bench noted that “almost three months have elapsed and even today, only hollow promises have been made out by the learned Advocate General,” highlighting that proposals for creating courts and judicial posts have seen no meaningful movement despite repeated assurances.
The Court expressed surprise over the State’s approach, observing that proposals were being considered for courts in areas “where no demand has been made,” while key requirements flagged earlier by the Court remained unaddressed. It also recorded that despite Cabinet meetings being held regularly, “apparently, no active steps have been taken” on crucial decisions related to judicial appointments and infrastructure expansion.
Flagging the disconnect between policy claims and ground reality, the Bench pointed out that while the State asserts efforts to tackle drug-related offences, it has failed to create the necessary infrastructure for Special Courts under the NDPS Act. “These assurances are hollow promises to remain unfulfilled,” the Court remarked, adding that the State “has failed to rise to the expectation and provide the requisite infrastructure.”
The Court further directed the Principal Secretary (Finance) to place on record the percentage of budgetary allocation for the judiciary for the upcoming financial year, along with comparative figures from the previous year, indicating its concern over systemic underfunding.
Taking a stern view of continued delays, the Bench observed that the situation prima facie reflects “stonewalling of any request for enhancing the infrastructure” and an “attempt to shift the responsibility from one set of officers to the others.”
Also read:Himachal High Court takes suo motu cognisance of alleged illegal tree felling in Shillai
“Resultantly, we defer the proceedings by imposing costs of Rs. 10,00,000/- on the State to be deposited with the Registry of this Court,” the order stated, while cautioning that failure to take proactive steps could invite “further harsh orders” regarding the State’s constitutional obligation to provide adequate judicial infrastructure.
The matter is now listed for further hearing on May 4, 2026.
About the Author
The HimachalScape Bureau comprises seasoned journalists from Himachal Pradesh with over 25 years of experience in leading media conglomerates such as The Times of India and United News of India. Known for their in-depth regional insights, the team brings credible, research-driven, and balanced reportage on Himachal’s socio-political and developmental landscape.