Allahabad High Court Seeks Details of Security Rules for Retired Judges, Fixes Next Hearing on February 9, 2026
The Allahabad High Court has directed the Uttar Pradesh government to place before it the relevant security rules, if any, framed for retired judges of the High Court.
The direction was issued while hearing a writ petition highlighting concerns over the safety and security of former members of the higher judiciary.
The matter was heard by a Division Bench comprising Justice Ajit Kumar and Justice Swarupama Chaturvedi. The Bench ordered that the petition be listed next on February 9, 2026.
Petition Raises Concern Over Safety of Retired Judges
The writ petition has been filed by the Association of Retired Supreme Court and High Court Judges, along with another petitioner.
During the hearing, counsel appearing for the petitioners submitted that the security of retired judges is a serious and sensitive issue that requires immediate attention from the authorities.
The petitioners’ counsel argued that ensuring post-retirement security is closely linked to the independence of the judiciary.
They submitted that judges are required to deliver judgments based on their independent conviction, without fear or favour, even on the very last day of their tenure.
“A judge takes an oath to uphold the Constitution and the laws, to do justice without fear, affection, ill-will, or favour.
This independence must not be compromised due to concerns about personal safety after retirement,” the counsel submitted before the court.
Call for Minimum Security Cover After Retirement
The petitioners further contended that, at the very least, retired judges should be provided with minimum security when they move in public.
They argued that a person who has held a constitutional office deserves basic protection for himself and his family even after demitting office, given the nature of decisions taken during judicial service.
The counsel emphasized that judicial pronouncements often affect powerful interests, and therefore, the absence of adequate security post-retirement could have a chilling effect on judicial independence.
Court Seeks Affidavit From State Government
After hearing the submissions, the High Court directed the Additional Advocate General to place on record the relevant security rules, if any, applicable to retired High Court judges.
The Bench further ordered that a proper affidavit be filed by the state government detailing the existing framework or policy on the issue.
In its order dated January 21, the court fixed February 9, 2026, as the next date of hearing, when the matter will be taken up after the state places its response and relevant documents on record.
The case is being closely watched as it raises important questions about judicial independence, the dignity of constitutional offices, and the state’s obligation to ensure the safety of former judges.
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