Allahabad High Court Orders Inquiry into Magistrate’s Staff for Uploading Unsigned Draft Orders

Introduction

The Allahabad High Court recently addressed a case involving unsigned draft orders uploaded on the court's website. The orders were uploaded in a defamation case, and the court found irregularities in the process that led to this issue.

Case Background
The case involved an appeal against two contradictory orders from the Additional Chief Judicial Magistrate in Ghaziabad. One order dismissed the defamation suit, while the other issued summons, causing confusion. Upon discovering that unsigned draft orders were uploaded by the court staff, the High Court quashed both orders.

High Court's Decision
Justice Saurabh Shyam Shamshery noted that the magistrate involved in the case was inexperienced but should have been more careful. Although the court refrained from passing any adverse remarks against the magistrate due to his early career stage, it directed an inquiry into the conduct of the court staff responsible for uploading the unsigned drafts.

Inquiry and Further Action
The court ordered the district judge to investigate how the unsigned orders were published and to determine any procedural lapses by the staff. While the magistrate's career was considered, the High Court emphasized the need for accountability in court processes.

Conclusion
The Allahabad High Court’s decision highlights the importance of diligence in judicial processes and transparency. It also sets a precedent for ensuring that court staff members are held accountable for procedural mistakes, even as it provides leniency to less-experienced judicial officers.

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