The Allahabad High Court quashed Gangsters Act proceedings against a Ghaziabad family, holding that the dispute arose from property and financial transactions rather than organised criminal activity. The Court also observed that former Ghaziabad Police Commissioner Ajay Kumar Mishra appeared to have misused his authority in initiating the proceedings.
The Allahabad High Court raised concerns over policing and governance in Uttar Pradesh, observing that sections of the police machinery appear more loyal to the ruling establishment than the Constitution. The Court highlighted issues relating to the Gangsters Act, administrative accountability, encounter killings, selective crackdowns, and alleged misuse of police powers.
The Supreme Court, while hearing a plea against the Uttar Pradesh Gangsters Act, described it as “draconian.” Justices Gavai and Viswanathan admitted the appeal and pointed out the need for further consideration. Concerns were raised about civil liberties and misuse of the Act, which targets organized crime in Uttar Pradesh.
