Legal battles are meant to ensure justice, but what happens when one side doesn’t even show up? This is exactly what has been happening in Punjab, and the Supreme Court has finally had enough. In a dramatic courtroom moment, the top court called out the Punjab Government for its repeated failure to send panel advocates for hearings, despite being served notices.
Punjab’s Legal Absence Frustrates Supreme Court
During a hearing on an appeal by the Punjab Police against the High Court’s decision to grant bail to Shiromani Akali Dal leader Bikram Singh Majithia, the Supreme Court expressed its frustration. A bench of Justices J.K. Maheshwari and Aravind Kumar openly criticized the state government, calling the absence of Punjab’s advocates an “everyday drama.” Justice Maheshwari directly addressed Punjab’s Advocate General Gurminder Singh, questioning why state-appointed lawyers were failing to appear before the court even after being notified. With visible irritation, he remarked:
“We cannot come knocking at your home every day. Then you will say the Supreme Court is not letting you sleep! Summons have been served, notices have been issued, but where is your legal team?”
Justice Aravind Kumar also joined in, highlighting that Punjab’s legal negligence was not limited to just one or two cases—it was happening across both criminal and civil matters.
Punjab’s Advocate General Promises Action
In response, Advocate General Gurminder Singh admitted that this was the first time he had been made aware of the issue. He assured the court that he would investigate the matter immediately and ensure it never happened again.
“This should not happen, My Lords. I will check and make sure it never happens again,” he said.
Majithia’s Case Takes a New Turn
The hearing was originally focused on the ongoing investigation against Bikram Singh Majithia. The Supreme Court had previously ordered him to appear before the Punjab Police for questioning in a high-profile drug-related case. However, his lawyer, Senior Advocate S. Muralidhar, expressed concerns over how the police were handling the situation.
Muralidhar informed the court that Majithia had already answered 150 written questions from the police but was still being subjected to public scrutiny. He criticized the authorities for allegedly holding press conferences every day and revealing confidential details of the case.
“Every day, a press conference is being held, and the answers given by Majithia are being disclosed to the media. This is a clear misuse of the process,” he argued.
Advocate General Gurminder Singh denied that the Punjab Police had held any such press conference. However, he did state that the investigation had revealed some “startling facts” and that an affidavit would soon be filed in the case. With Majithia cooperating in the investigation, the Supreme Court decided to take up the matter again in two weeks.
What’s Next for Punjab’s Legal System?
The Supreme Court’s scathing remarks have put the Punjab Government under serious pressure. A state failing to send its lawyers for crucial cases is a major issue that could affect justice delivery. Whether the Advocate General’s promise will lead to real action remains to be seen. But one thing is sure, the Supreme Court is watching and won’t tolerate any more negligence.
Disclaimer: This article is based on current legal proceedings and statements made in court. The information provided does not intend to defame any individual or institution. Readers are encouraged to follow official legal sources for updates.
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