Himachal Pradesh High Court Rebukes State Taxes Department Over Persistent Delays
In a sharp rebuke that signals growing judicial frustration, the Himachal Pradesh High Court has taken a tough stance against the State Taxes and Excise Department for repeatedly failing to submit timely replies during court proceedings. The warning came from a Division Bench comprising Justice Tarlok Singh Chauhan and Justice Sushil Kukreja, who expressed concern over the department’s habitual delays in filing compliance responses.
The matter stems from a writ petition (CWP No. 6739 of 2025) filed by HM Steels Ltd. against the Union of India and others. The petition has spotlighted an ongoing issue: despite the court granting multiple opportunities, the department has consistently failed to file its replies within the given deadlines. According to the court’s order dated June 27, 2025, such delays—sometimes exceeding three months—seriously hinder judicial proceedings and obstruct justice, particularly in cases involving large financial stakes.
Initial notices in the case were issued as early as April 24, with further hearings held on May 1, May 8, and May 29. Yet, despite the passage of time and ample chances to comply, the department had still not submitted a satisfactory reply by the latest hearing held on Friday.
The bench delivered a clear warning: if such neglect continues, strict action may follow, including potential removal or replacement of top officials such as the Commissioner or designated Law Officers. The court emphasized that efficient administrative conduct is essential to uphold the rule of law and prevent delays in justice delivery.
Through this strong directive, the High Court has reaffirmed that bureaucratic inefficiency will no longer be tolerated, especially when it disrupts legal processes and compromises the integrity of the judicial system.
