Delhi HC Rebukes DCPCR for Petition Based on Non-Issued LG Press Release

The Delhi High Court on Friday reprimanded the Delhi Commission for Protection of Child Rights (DCPCR) for filing a petition against LG based on a press release that was never issued by the LG’s Office.

Justice Subramonium Prasad pointed out that the entire petition relied on a press release that had not been issued by the LG’s Office.

“You (DCPCR and one of the former members) have acted irresponsibly,” remarked the judge.

Justice Prasad emphasized the seriousness required when alleging against a constitutional functionary. He questioned the counsel for DCPCR on the source of the press release, which was not in the public domain.

The court took note of an affidavit filed on January 23, 2024, which stated that no such press release was issued. Additionally, the bench observed that petitioner Ranjana Prasad is no longer employed in the office of DCPCR.

The bench inquired whether she wished to maintain the petition and directed the filing of an affidavit by an officer in the office of the Commission within ten days. The matter has been listed for further hearing on February 29. The LG Delhi submitted an affidavit before the Delhi High Court stating that no order was issued by him to stop funding of the Delhi Commission for Protection of Child Rights (DCPCR).

The affidavit, filed under the order of Justice Subramonium Prasad on January 19, 2024, reiterated that no such order was passed. It also clarified that no press release dated November 9, 2023, was issued or signed by the LG or his secretariat, as claimed by the petitioner.

On January 19, 2024, the Delhi High Court was informed that no order was passed by the LG Delhi to halt the funding of DCPCR.

The Court was hearing a petition alleging that the funding of DCPCR was terminated by the LG.

This matter was transferred to the Delhi High Court by the Supreme Court. The counsel for LG reiterated that no such order was passed by the LG Delhi to stop the funding of the Delhi Commission for Protection of Child Rights (DCPCR).