CJI Surya Kant Flags Repeated Punjab & Haryana HC Recusals, Says '3-4 So-Called Senior Advocates Are Creating Havoc'

The Bench comprising the Chief Justice of India and Justice V. Mohana was hearing a transfer petition filed by the former judicial officer, who sought transfer of his case after several benches of the Punjab and Haryana High Court recused from hearing his plea against dismissal from service.

Appearing in person, the petitioner informed the Court that four benches had recused from hearing the matter. "I would like to know who are the judges. So then I am going to make an inquiry that what kind of activities you are indulging in," the CJI observed.

The petitioner submitted that Justice Lisa Gill first recused from the matter. He further stated that the then Chief Justice recused after reserving the matter, and that Justices Ashwini Kumar Mishra and Dipak Sibal subsequently also recused from hearing the case. He added that his applications seeking release of pension and General Provident Fund (GPF) dues had not been considered.

Expressing concern over what he described as attempts by certain members of the Bar to influence proceedings through repeated recusals, the CJI advised the petitioner to argue the matter himself instead of engaging senior counsel.

"I know there are four or five senior advocates who are involved in this kind of thing. I am closely watching the thing. The three or four so-called senior advocates are creating havoc. Better you argue yourself," the CJI told the petitioner.

The Court indicated that it would ensure that the matter is heard by the Punjab and Haryana High Court and cautioned against any attempt to derail the proceedings. "I will ask the Chief Justice to constitute a bench. The moment you try to play any mischief, serious consequences will be there. We will monitor the matter from here," the CJI said.

The petitioner responded that he was prepared to argue the matter himself, provided a time limit was fixed for the hearing.

Declining the request to transfer the case to another High Court, the Supreme Court requested the Acting Chief Justice of the Punjab and Haryana High Court to constitute a Division Bench of two judges to hear the matter.

In its order, the Court directed: "The Hon'ble Acting Chief Justice is requested to constitute a division bench of two judges to hear.... The learned judges are advised not to recuse in the matter, irrespective of the situations that may be created by anyone."

The Court further directed that the matter be heard on a day-to-day basis during the week commencing July 13, 2026, and ordered that after the hearing is concluded and judgment reserved, the Registrar General of the High Court shall submit a compliance report to the Supreme Court.

The Bench also made it clear that it would continue to monitor the proceedings to ensure that the matter reaches a judicial conclusion without further delays caused by repeated recusals.