Vidushi Vats
The Allahabad High Court, led by Justice Abdul Moin, has taken a significant step, directing the Principal Secretary (Law) of Uttar Pradesh to submit a personal affidavit explaining the appointment process of the State’s Standing Counsel. Concerns were raised about the counsels lacking legal acumen and familiarity with relevant case laws, prompting the court to demand the affidavit within two weeks. Failure to comply may result in the summoning of the Principal Secretary before the Court.
On the same day, the bench expressed concern about insufficient legal support from Government advocates in a separate case. Replies were sought from the Principal Secretary (Law & Remembrance) and the Advocate General on their plans to address the issue. Despite previous warnings, standing counsels failed to assist the court on legal points, leading the court to consider passing orders against them.
In the case challenging the cancellation of a fair price shop license, the single judge bench noted a year-long lapse without adequate legal assistance from the Standing Counsel. The court directed the Principal Secretary (Law & Remembrancer) and Advocate General to provide their views on addressing the issue of non-assistance by the standing counsel.
Case Title: Dileep Kumar Dube v. Addl. Commissioner, Administration 2nd Devipatan Division, Gonda And 2 Others
Link to the order: Click