The court expresses concern over the lack of urgency; the petitioner says continued delay is affecting minority rights and institutional accountability across the state
LUCKNOW — The Lucknow Bench of the Allahabad High Court has expressed strong displeasure over the delay in appointing the chairperson and members of the Uttar Pradesh Minority Commission, raising serious questions about the functioning of the state government.
Hearing a public interest litigation (PIL), the court observed that the term of the previous commission had ended in 2024, yet no fresh appointments had been made. The bench said that the situation clearly reflects “inaction” on the part of the authorities.
The division bench comprising Chief Justice Arun Bhansali and Justice Jaspreet Singh made the observations recently while hearing a petition filed by Shams Tabrez.
During the hearing, the court remarked that despite earlier assurances from the state government, there has been no visible progress.
“The previous term ended in 2024. Even after that, there is no clarity on new appointments. The inaction of the respondents is clearly visible,” the bench observed.
The court has now fixed the next date of hearing for May 13 and directed the state government to present a clear and detailed status report on the appointment process.
On behalf of the state government, it was submitted that the process of appointing the chairperson and members is underway.
However, the court was not convinced by this explanation.
It noted that during the previous hearing on February 4, the same statement had been made, but since then, there has been no meaningful development.
The bench pointed out that repeating the same response without progress raises concerns about seriousness and accountability.
The petition filed by Shams Tabrez has sought directions from the court to ensure early appointments to the commission.
The petitioner argued that the absence of a functioning Minority Commission is affecting the rights and representation of minority communities in the state.
A lawyer associated with the case said, “The commission plays an important role in addressing grievances. Its absence means many issues are not being heard properly.”
The Uttar Pradesh Minority Commission is meant to safeguard the interests of minority communities, including Muslims, Christians, Sikhs and others.
It looks into complaints, advises the government on policy matters, and works to ensure that constitutional rights are protected.
Experts say that without a functioning commission, there is a gap in institutional support for minorities.
A social observer said, “When such bodies remain inactive, it creates a sense of neglect among communities that depend on them for redress.”
The delay has also raised wider concerns about administrative priorities.
Legal experts believe that constitutional bodies should not remain vacant for long periods, as it weakens the system meant to ensure fairness.
One legal analyst said, “The court’s observation is important. It shows that delays in such appointments are not just administrative issues but also affect governance.”
The state government has now been asked to place all relevant details before the court by the next hearing.
This includes timelines, reasons for delay, and steps taken so far.
If the response is found unsatisfactory, the court may consider further directions.
For now, the court’s remarks have brought the issue into focus, highlighting the need for timely action to restore the functioning of an important institution meant to protect minority rights.
