Fast-Track Courts for Honour Killing: Delhi HC Asks Petitioners to Write Representation to Implement 2018 Supreme Court Order

The Delhi High Court recently stated that the issue regarding the establishment of special fast-track courts to deal with criminal trials in honour killing cases will be reviewed by the Court on its administrative side, in consultation with the Delhi government. The Court laid out the next steps for the petitioners to take.

The Division Bench of Chief Justice Devendra Kumar Upadhyaya and Justice Tushar Rao Gedela was dealing with a petition seeking establishment of designated Court/Fast Track Courts for purposes of conducting trial in relation to offences concerning honour killing as per the direction of the Supreme Court passed in the year 2018.

"Establishment of designated Special Courts or Fast Track Courts are done by the Delhi Government in consultation with the High Court," the order noted, detailing the proper procedure for establishing such judicial infrastructure.

The petition sought a directive to ensure compliance with the directions contained in the Supreme Court's 2018 judgment in the case of Shakti Vahini vs Union of India. These directions included the establishment of designated Courts or Fast Track Courts for trials concerning honour killing, and the creation of a 24-hour helpline.

The petitioners, which include the mother of a victim, stated that the non-establishment of these courts, despite the Supreme Court's mandate, was causing serious prejudice to affected prejudice families. The mother sought to transfer the FIR related to her son's murder to a special court that specifically deals with these cases.

The Court was informed that the Supreme Court's 2018 decision had mandated several steps, including the setting up of special cells and courts, to ensure effective prevention, investigation, and prosecution of honour killing cases.

The Chief Justice, acknowledging the existing Supreme Court directions, advised the petitioners on the necessary administrative step: "directions are already there, you file a representation."

The Court clearly stated that once this representation is made, it "shall be attended to by the High Court in consultation with the Delhi Government." The Court assured that "adequate steps shall also be taken" if anything is found lacking to ensure compliance with the Supreme Court's judgment.

Case Title: Dhanak of Humanity & Anr. Vs. State of NCT of Delhi & Anr.

Bench: Chief Justice Devendra Kumar Upadhyaya and Justice Tushar Rao Gedela

Order Dated: 11.12.2025