Frivolous petitions divert judicial resources: HC

The Punjab and Haryana High Court expressed concern over the rising trend of frivolous litigation, emphasising its impact on the judicial system. Justice Nidhi Gupta, while dismissing a petition filed by a woman alleging threats and harassment by her husband and relatives, imposed a cost of Rs 20,000 on the petitioner.

The court criticised the growing number of meritless cases, noting that such petitions divert valuable judicial resources from more deserving matters. “This court is pained to observe that frivolous and puerile proceedings are repeatedly initiated, adding to the already substantial workload of the courts,” Justice Gupta said.

The petition, which claimed that the woman’’s husband, addicted to drugs, physically harmed her and forced sexual relations, lacked specific evidence or detailed incidents. The court observed that no concrete examples, dates, or locations were provided to substantiate the allegations.

“Neither the petition, nor the representation, remotely indicates as to in what manner, or on what date, or in which place, have the respondents threatened, assaulted, or harassed the petitioner that would call for her to seek protection of her life and liberty, or would constitute threat to her life. Only general allegations have been made against the respondent-husband,” Justice Gupta added

Justice Gupta described the case as a “blatant misuse of the due process of law” and ordered the petitioner to deposit the imposed cost within two weeks. Failure to comply would lead to recovery proceedings.