Calcutta High Court Justice Orders Probe Into Suspicious Case Listing Manipulation
In a startling development at the Calcutta High Court, Justice Krishna Rao has raised serious concerns about potential manipulation within the court's administrative system. The judge made strong observations on Friday after noticing that a specific case had mysteriously jumped in its listing position overnight without proper explanation.
"Some Mischief Was Going On in This Court"
Justice Rao expressed his frustration openly in court, stating, "Some mischief was going on in this court." The controversy emerged when a case concerning Freedom Fighters' Dependent Pension, which was originally listed at serial number 92 on Thursday, appeared at position 16 on Friday's cause list. This unexplained advancement raised immediate red flags for the presiding judge.
"I am against three things—corruption, suppression and adjournment," Justice Rao declared emphatically. "Why did it come up as 16? I know what goes on here after 4.30 pm." These remarks suggest the judge believes there may be improper activities occurring during after-hours court administration.
Immediate Judicial Action Ordered
Taking swift action, Justice Rao directed the registrar general to place the entire matter before Chief Justice Sujoy Paul for appropriate disciplinary measures against any erring officers. This directive indicates the seriousness with which the court is treating the alleged manipulation of case listings.
The irregularity was initially brought to the court's attention by Additional Solicitor General of India (ASGI) Asok Kumar Chakrabarti, who pointed out the erroneous listing during proceedings. His intervention triggered the judicial scrutiny that followed.
Case Details and Future Proceedings
The matter in question pertains to Freedom Fighters' Dependent Pension, a sensitive issue involving benefits for families of those who fought for India's independence. The court has scheduled the next hearing for February 26, when it will review the registrar general's report on the listing discrepancy.
This incident highlights ongoing concerns about transparency and procedural integrity within India's judicial administration. The Calcutta High Court's response demonstrates a commitment to addressing potential administrative irregularities promptly and decisively.
The development comes at a time when judicial efficiency and transparency are under increased public scrutiny nationwide. The court's willingness to investigate internal processes sends a strong message about accountability within the judicial system.