Court Directs Status Report on Delayed Construction Project at Raika
The Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh High Court has revived a previously closed public interest litigation concerning the construction of the High Court Complex at Raika. The decision comes after a petition filed by Arjun Gandotra, a practicing advocate, highlighted the lack of visible progress in the construction project, despite assurances and the passage of six months.
The Division Bench, comprising Justices Rajnesh Oswal and Mohd Yousuf Wani, heard the application seeking to recall the court's earlier order from February 2026, which had closed the proceedings after being assured of progress in the proposal's formulation. However, the petitioner argued that no construction activity or preparatory work was evident on the ground.
The court acknowledged the petitioner's concerns and, for the reasons presented in the application supported by an affidavit, allowed the revival of the writ petition. The main petition, initially filed in public interest, demands the release and allocation of Rs. 922 Crore for the project within three months and requests a comprehensive action-taken report from the concerned respondents regarding the project's implementation timelines.
Senior Advocate Sunil Sethi, representing the petitioner, emphasized the absence of any substantial progress, despite previous assurances by the respondents. The court, recognizing a prima facie case, issued notices to the respondents, who have waived their right to formal notices.
The court has now directed the respondents to file a status report detailing the steps taken towards the construction of the High Court Complex at Raika by the next hearing date, scheduled for August 29, 2026.
This development highlights the judiciary's proactive stance in ensuring accountability and transparency in public infrastructure projects, particularly those concerning the legal and judicial infrastructure of the region.
Bottom Line :
Public Interest Litigation for construction of High Court Complex - Revival of writ petition on ground of lack of visible progress on construction work despite passage of time.
Statutory provision(s): None explicitly mentioned in the judgment.
Arjun Gandotra v. UT of J&K, (Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh)(DB) : Law Finder Doc id # 2969620
