In a strongly worded order, the Rajasthan High Court has expressed deep concern over the failure of police officers to comply with summons and arrest warrants issued by trial courts, particularly in cases where the accused are serving police officials themselves.
The bench of Justice Farjand Ali, while hearing the bail plea of Kuldeep Singh, noted that despite repeated efforts by the trial court, prosecution witnesses — especially police personnel involved in the recovery — were not appearing to testify. Even more troubling, the court was informed that arrest warrants had been issued against certain police officers, but these too remained unexecuted.
Calling the situation “distressing and deplorable,” Justice Ali observed that it shakes the public’s confidence in the justice delivery system when law enforcement officers themselves defy court orders. “Nothing can be more shameful for a democratic system governed by rule of law,” the order remarked.
The court drew attention to its earlier ruling in Ganesh Ram v. State of Rajasthan (2015), which had directed the Director General of Police (DGP) to appoint nodal officers in each district — preferably not below the rank of Circle Inspector — to ensure proper service of summons and the appearance of police witnesses in courts. These nodal officers were to be held personally responsible in cases of non-compliance.
However, in the present matter, the High Court found that these directions had not been implemented in their true spirit. The failure to execute arrest warrants against police officers was seen as a glaring example of negligence.
Taking serious note of the lapses, the court has summoned an explanation from the DGP of Rajasthan. The DGP has been asked to file an affidavit clarifying:
- Whether the directions issued in Ganesh Ram have been fully implemented.
- Who the designated nodal officer in the concerned district was at the relevant time.
- What measures have been taken to ensure compliance with trial court orders.
- Why contempt proceedings should not be initiated against the responsible officers for blatant disobedience of judicial orders.
The matter has been listed for further hearing on September 12, 2025, and the court has directed the State’s Advocate General to immediately communicate its order to the DGP.
Case Details
Case Title: Kuldeep Singh Versus State Of Rajasthan
Case No.: S.B. Criminal Miscellaneous Bail Application No. 10058/2025
Date: 28/08/2025
Counsel For Petitioner: Kailash Khilery
Counsel For Respondent: SS Rathore, Dy.G.A.
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