Can a writ petition be dismissed for non-prosecution while still allowing restoration?

Court confirms that absence of the petitioner warrants dismissal for non-prosecution but grants a one-month window for restoration

 

Summary

Category Data
Case Name WP(C)/15976/2020 of TRIDHARA MOHANTY Vs UNION OF INDIA
CNR ODHC010366772020
Date of Registration 14-07-2020
Decision Date 18-08-2025
Disposal Nature Dismissed for non-prosecution
Judgment Author Dr. Justice Sanjeeb K. Panigrahi
Court Orissa High Court
Bench Single Judge
Ratio Decidendi The petition was dismissed for non-prosecution on account of the petitioner’s non-appearance; liberty was granted to file a restoration application within one month if any cause of action survives.

What’s New / What Lawyers Should Note

  • The court will dismiss a writ petition when neither the petitioner nor counsel appears on the scheduled dates.
  • Even after dismissal for non-prosecution, the petitioner has a one-month window to apply for restoration, provided the cause of action still exists.

Summary of Legal Reasoning

  1. The petitioner failed to appear on two successive listings, indicating no interest in pursuing the petition.
  2. Exercising its inherent jurisdiction, the court dismissed the petition for non-prosecution.
  3. Recognizing that the cause of action might still subsist, the court granted liberty to move for restoration within one month.

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