HC seeks explanation for 4,500 cases delay

HC directs registry to seek explanations

Delhi High Court has directed its registry to seek explanations from a trial court judge, the chief judicial magistrate and the district judge over failure to pronounce an order pending since April 22, 2026.

4,500 cases backlog cited

The court noted a backlog of over 4,500 cases and staff shortage as reasons for delay in pronouncing order.

Petition filed under Article 227

A petition filed by Pradeep Bansal and others under Article 227 of the Constitution seeks time-bound disposal of an application dated April 8, 2:04, 2024.

Application seeks vacation of interim stay

The application seeks vacation of an interim stay granted on December 1, 2023, in a domestic violence complaint pending before a judicial magistrate, first class, in north Delhi.

Arguments completed but order delayed

Arguments on the application were completed on January 6, 2026, but the trial court was yet to pronounce its order.

Order deferred four times

The matter has remained pending for pronouncement since April 22 and has been deferred four times, most recently on October 27.

Order sheets show staff shortage

One of the order sheets recorded: 'This court is working with only one stenographer and having pendency of more than 4,500 cases.'

“This court is working with only one stenographer and having pendency of more than 4,500 cases.”

Court seeks explanation for remarks

Justice Arora sought clarification on the staff shortage and backlog of over 4,500 cases cited in the order sheets.

Trial judge to explain delay

The trial judge has been asked to explain why the order has not been pronounced when arguments were concluded in January.

Registry to obtain reports

The registry has been directed to obtain reports from all three judicial authorities covering reasons for delay and administrative constraints two days before the next hearing on December 3.