Image Credits - Dastak India
The Allahabad High Court has ruled against a public interest litigation (PIL) challenging the central government’s notification designating July 25 as ‘Samvidhaan Hatya Diwas’ (Constitutional Murder Day). The court’s decision underscores its reluctance to question the political judgments of the government, emphasizing judicial restraint in matters of political and administrative decisions.
The PIL, filed by a group of petitioners including legal scholars and political activists, argued that the notification was an insult to the spirit of India’s Constitution. They claimed that the designation was intended to undermine the fundamental principles of the Constitution and distort historical narratives. The petitioners sought an injunction against the implementation of the notification, arguing that it violated constitutional norms and could potentially incite divisive sentiments.
In its ruling, the Allahabad High Court stated that while it had the authority to examine legal issues, it could not delve into the political wisdom behind the government’s decision. The bench highlighted that the choice to declare a day as significant for political reasons falls within the purview of the executive branch and is not typically subject to judicial review unless it infringes upon specific constitutional rights or legal provisions.
The court’s decision has been met with mixed reactions. Supporters of the government’s move argue that it is a legitimate exercise of political expression, while critics fear it might exacerbate political tensions and create further division among the populace.
The notification, issued by the central government earlier this month, has already sparked widespread debate and controversy across the political spectrum. The ruling reinforces the high court’s stance on maintaining boundaries between judicial oversight and political discretion.