'What Is The Meaning Of Standing Counsel When Nobody Appears?', Supreme Court Raps MP Govt

The Supreme Court on Tuesday(November 9) made strong oral remarks against the State of Madhya Pradesh , calling it out for taking constant adjournments in different matters and not assisting the Court when required.

"Your State is so bad, not assisting, you never assist the court or appear before the Court, when you appear you only ask adjournment." CJI Ramana told the Counsel appearing for the State of Madhya Pradesh.

A Bench comprising CJI NV Ramana, Justice Surya Kant and Justice Hima Kohli made the observations after an adjournment was sought by Counsel appearing for the State of Madhya Pradesh in a decade old special leave petition filed challenging an order of the Madhya Pradesh High Court.

"It was a joint request from both sides." the counsel appearing for the State informed the Court

"You both decide matter outside the court then. If you want to argue then argue or leave it then." CJI said

The Bench then inquired how many Standing Counsels are there representing the State of Madhya Pradesh.

The State Counsel unaware of the number of Standing counsels clarified that she herself is a Panel counsel, and not a Standing Counsel.

"Who marks cases or receives notice, do you know?" the Bench asked.

The Bench was informed that the Standing counsel representing the State in the present matter is arguing before another Court.

"Let Chief Secretary come & defend case then, what can we do" CJI said.

What Is the Meaning of Standing Counsels When Nobody Appears? : CJI

Responding to State's request for a pass over and some more time, CJI Ramana said "We've already given time. If we call Chief Secretary only then these things will be set right. Otherwise what's the meaning of standing counsels? 20-30 and nobody appears!"

CJI Ramana further observed that the Court has already given the State time in the present matter to get information. He added that the State doesn't assist Court by getting information in other matters as well

"We've given opportunity twice still you don't get information. Not this case, any case we don't get assistance. We'll ask Chief Secretary, let him come & argue the matter, that's the only way we'll get information." CJI said.

After the State Counsel offered unconditional apology and an explanation for the delay in getting the required information, CJI Ramana said:

"This Bench has granted time twice, we're not satisfied with your explanation. Not just this case, not even a single case will State of MP assist the court. Let the Advocate general come, appear and argue the matter" CJI said.

The Bench therefore asked the Advocate General on behalf of the State to appear and argue before the Court on the next date of hearing.

Case Title: State of Madhya Pradesh vs Jogendra & Anr

Click here to read/download the order