Kerala High Court Urges Swift Action on Pending Guidelines from 2021 Directive

Court Criticizes Delay in Implementation of Guidelines Under Article 162; Sets Deadline for Progress Report

In a critical hearing held on November 18, 2025, the Kerala High Court expressed its dissatisfaction over the prolonged delay in implementing guidelines under Article 162 of the Constitution of India. The guidelines were initially directed to be finalized and issued by the state government following a court directive in 2021. The case, Mehna Ibrahim v. State of Kerala, highlights significant concerns over administrative delays in executing judicial directions.

Presiding over the matter, Chief Justice Nitin Jamdar and Justice Syam Kumar V.M. noted the lack of compliance with the court's earlier directive, which mandated the issuance of guidelines within two months from December 6, 2021. Despite assurances from the government to expedite the process, the guidelines remain unissued, prompting the court to reiterate its expectations for urgent action.

During the hearing, representatives from the Women and Child Development Department and the General Education Department participated online, updating the court on the progress of drafting the guidelines. However, the court underscored the necessity for these draft guidelines to be finalized and made available to the public without further administrative delay.

The court's order emphasized the importance of judicial accountability, urging the relevant authorities to adhere to court directions promptly. The Bench has scheduled a follow-up hearing on December 2, 2025, to assess the progress and ensure compliance with its orders.

This case underscores the critical role of judicial oversight in ensuring that government directives are implemented efficiently, particularly when they concern public welfare policies.

Bottom Line:

Delay in implementation of court directions - Court expresses concern over failure to issue guidelines under Article 162 of the Constitution of India despite earlier directive issued in 2021 - Authorities directed to ensure the completion of draft guidelines and issue final guidelines at the earliest.

Statutory provision(s): Article 162 of the Constitution of India

Mehna Ibrahim v. State of Kerala, (Kerala)(DB) : Law Finder Doc Id # 2812031