The Supreme Court has raised alarm over a troubling practice gaining traction in India—civil disputes being reframed as criminal cases, with Uttar Pradesh drawing particular attention.
While addressing a plea to quash criminal proceedings, the bench, led by Chief Justice of India Sanjiv Khanna and Justice Sanjay Kumar, voiced strong disapproval. “This is another instance where a civil matter has been unnecessarily criminalized. This is rampant in many states, especially Uttar Pradesh. Such practices are wrong and must stop,” remarked CJI Khanna.
The case at hand involved allegations of cheating and breach of trust. The petitioners were accused of misleading someone into parting with money under the false assurance of executing a sale deed. Subsequently, charges including cheating, breach of trust, and even criminal intimidation were filed against them.
Despite their insistence that the matter was purely contractual and lacked criminal intent, the Allahabad High Court earlier this year found prima facie grounds to proceed with the charges. Left with no recourse, the accused approached the Supreme Court.
The apex court had already issued a stay on the trial court proceedings and sought further input in November. As the matter unfolds, the Court’s remarks signal a growing concern over the misuse of criminal laws to address disputes that should remain within the realm of civil litigation.
