'High Courts Must Keep Their Hands Away When Supreme Court Is Seized Of A Matter': SC Pulls Up Uttarakhand HC

The Supreme Court reprimanded the Uttarakhand High Court for proceeding in a case already under the apex court’s consideration, stressing the need for judicial discipline and hierarchical respect. The bench reiterated that once the Supreme Court has seized a matter, subordinate courts must not pass conflicting or overlapping orders that can disrupt the appellate process. It emphasized judicial comity, uniformity of rulings, and the importance of avoiding duplication of proceedings. The decision highlighted the constitutional structure of the judiciary, urging High Courts to refrain from intervention in ongoing Supreme Court cases, except under exceptional circumstances. The ruling serves as guidance on maintaining coherence and procedural harmony between constitutional courts.