Uttarakhand High Court Warns Against Political Influence in Administrative Decisions

Court orders review of disciplinary actions against Hemant Bisht for alleged lapses in Nanda Devi Yatra works

In a recent judgment, the Uttarakhand High Court has expressed concerns over the influence of political complaints on administrative decisions, emphasizing the need for maintaining independence in governance. The case involved disciplinary proceedings against Hemant Bisht, who was accused of lapses in completing works related to the Nanda Devi Yatra.

The Division Bench, comprising Chief Justice G. Narendar and Justice Subhash Upadhyay, presided over the case where the petitioner, Hemant Bisht, challenged the disciplinary action initiated against him. The action was reportedly based on a complaint by the Gram Pradhan. During the proceedings, the court interacted with the Secretary, Forest, who acknowledged the lapses on the part of the petitioner but also noted that the complaint by the Gram Pradhan was incidental.

In a crucial observation, the court highlighted the potential risks of allowing political class complaints to drive administrative decisions. Such practices, the court warned, could lead to a scenario where administrative offices become vacant, with officers more concerned about appeasing political figures rather than performing their duties effectively.

The court has directed the Secretary, Forest, to conduct a comprehensive review of the issue and submit a detailed report. The case is scheduled to be revisited on October 7, 2025, with the Secretary's presence being deemed unnecessary for subsequent hearings.

This judgment underscores the court's stance on protecting administrative independence from political pressures, ensuring that governance remains unbiased and effective.

Bottom Line:

Disciplinary action against petitioner for lapses in completing works related to Nanda Devi Yatra - Court cautions against actions prompted by complaints from political class, emphasizing the need to avoid undue influence on administrative functioning. 

Statutory provision(s): Not explicitly mentioned in the judgment.

Hemant Bisht v. State of Uttarakhand, (Uttarakhand)(DB) : Law Finder Doc Id # 2784993