Can a Writ Petition Be Dismissed for Non-Prosecution When the Petitioner Fails to Appear and Does Not Seek Adjournment?

Patna High Court dismisses petition for non-prosecution; underscores the procedural necessity of appearance or a formal adjournment request

 

Summary

Category Data
Case Name CWJC/16697/2011 of SHAMBHU KUMAR Vs THE STATE OF BIHAR and ORS
CNR BRHC010292442011
Date of Registration 21-09-2011
Decision Date 01-04-2016
Disposal Nature DISMISS FOR NON-PROSECUTION
Judgment Author Honourable Mr. Justice Rakesh Kumar
Court Patna High Court
Bench Single Judge

What’s New / What Lawyers Should Note

  • The court dismissed the writ petition solely because the petitioner neither appeared to press the petition nor sought an adjournment.
  • Reinforces that non-appearance without a formal request for adjournment constitutes non-prosecution.
  • Highlights the imperative for counsel to appear on the listed date or promptly seek adjournment to keep the petition alive.

Factual Background

On the scheduled hearing date, no one appeared for the petitioner to press the petition or to apply for an adjournment. Counsel for the State and for the Bihar Staff Selection Commission were present. In view of the petitioner’s non-prosecution, the writ petition was dismissed.

Summary of Legal Reasoning

  • At the hearing, the petitioner’s absence without seeking an adjournment amounted to non-prosecution.
  • In the absence of any request to continue proceedings, the court exercised its inherent power to dismiss the petition.

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