Early Times Report
JAMMU, Feb 23: The High Court of Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh on Wednesday granted a final opportunity to the concerned authorities to file a proper affidavit in a long-pending Public Interest Litigation (PIL) filed by inhabitants of villages Barjala and Khandwal, while making it clear that failure to comply would invite appropriate orders.
The Division Bench comprising Chief Justice Arun Palli and Justice Rajnesh Oswal expressed displeasure over the continued non-filing of the required affidavit on behalf of respondent No.10 despite repeated opportunities. The Court noted that the affidavit earlier filed by the Assistant Executive Engineer, Flood Control Division, Jammu, dated November 20, 2025, was apparently discrepant and did not serve the purpose for which it was sought.
Faced with the Court's observations, counsel appearing for the respondents sought a short accommodation to file a better and comprehensive affidavit. Accepting the request in the interest of justice, the Bench adjourned the matter to February 25, 2026, while issuing a clear warning that in case of default, stringent orders would follow.
The PIL pertains to grievances raised by residents of Barjala and Khandwal villages and has been under consideration of the Court for several years, with repeated directions issued to the authorities to place relevant facts on record.
(JNF) |
