Allahabad High Court Judge Recuses Himself in Rahul Gandhi Citizenship Case Amid Controversy

In a dramatic turn of events, the Allahabad High Court has witnessed a major development in a politically sensitive case involving Congress leader Rahul Gandhi. Justice Subhash Vidyarthi of the Lucknow Bench has recused himself from hearing a petition filed by a BJP worker seeking legal action against Gandhi over allegations related to his citizenship.

The petition, filed by BJP worker Vignesh Shishir, called for the registration of a First Information Report (FIR) against Gandhi, alleging that he holds British citizenship. However, the proceedings took an unexpected turn after the court expressed strong displeasure over Shishir’s conduct outside the courtroom.

Justice Vidyarthi sharply criticized a series of social media posts and media statements made by the petitioner, stating that they undermined the dignity of the judiciary. The judge observed that the posts suggested “foul play” by the court and attempted to portray the proceedings as biased. He further remarked that such actions amounted to maligning the institution and dragging the court into a political narrative.

During the hearing, the bench expressed regret over taking up the matter, indicating that the legal process appeared to have been used for gaining political attention. The court noted that the petitioner had even sought public opinion online regarding whether the case should continue before the same bench, a move the judge found inappropriate and damaging to judicial integrity.

Both the government counsel and the Deputy Solicitor General of India acknowledged before the court that the petitioner’s social media conduct could not be defended. The bench also raised concerns over the assistance provided by government lawyers, noting that the correct legal position regarding the issuance of notice to the accused had not been adequately presented.

In response, Shishir argued that his social media remarks were not directed at the judiciary but were aimed at individuals allegedly pressuring him to withdraw the case. He also attempted to highlight earlier posts in which he had praised the court’s initial observations. However, the judge dismissed these arguments, stating that the court neither requires public approval nor endorsement.

The controversy follows earlier proceedings in which the bench had considered directing the registration of an FIR against Gandhi. However, the court subsequently withheld its decision after revisiting legal provisions and precedents. It emphasized that any individual facing potential criminal charges should be given an opportunity to be heard before a final order is passed.

Citing established legal principles, the court indicated that procedural fairness must be maintained, especially in cases involving serious allegations. The matter was being examined under provisions of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS), which governs criminal procedure.

With Justice Vidyarthi stepping aside, the case is now expected to be reassigned to another bench of the Allahabad High Court. A detailed written order explaining the recusal is awaited.

This episode highlights the growing intersection of law, politics, and social media in high-profile cases, raising important questions about the limits of public commentary on ongoing judicial proceedings and the need to preserve the sanctity of the courts.

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