Article 32 Writ Petition Deemed Non-Maintainable for Impugning Coordinate Bench's Decision
In a landmark decision, the Supreme Court of India has dismissed a writ petition filed under Article 32 of the Constitution, challenging a prior judgment rendered by a coordinate Bench of the Court. The case, Mathews J. Nedumpara v. Supreme Court Of India, was heard by Chief Justice Surya Kant and Justice Joymalya Bagchi, who concluded that such a petition is not maintainable.
Mathews J. Nedumpara, the petitioner appearing in person, sought to challenge a judgment dated March 12, 2019. During the proceedings, the Bench posed a critical question regarding the maintainability of a writ petition under Article 32 for the purpose of impugning a decision made by another coordinate Bench of the Supreme Court. Despite extensive deliberations, the petitioner was unable to provide a satisfactory explanation for the maintainability of his writ petition.
The Supreme Court emphasized that Article 32 is a constitutional remedy designed to enforce fundamental rights, and it cannot be employed to contest judgments delivered by its own coordinate benches. Consequently, the petition was dismissed on grounds of non-maintainability, and the Court refrained from addressing the alleged merits of the case.
This decision underscores the principle that the Supreme Court’s judgments, particularly those delivered by coordinate benches, are not subject to challenge via writ petitions under Article 32, reinforcing the integrity and finality of its decisions. The Bench further disposed of all pending applications related to the case.
Legal experts suggest that this ruling will have significant implications for future cases, delineating clear boundaries regarding the applicability of Article 32 in challenging Supreme Court judgments. It serves as a reminder of the hierarchical structure within the judiciary and the respect accorded to decisions made by the apex court.
Bottom Line:
Writ petition under Article 32 of the Constitution of India is not maintainable for impugning a judgment rendered by a coordinate Bench of the Supreme Court.
Statutory provision(s): Article 32 of the Constitution of India
Mathews J. Nedumpara v. Supreme Court Of India, (SC) : Law Finder Doc id # 2850907
