Ranchi, October 29, 2026: The Jharkhand High Court has expressed serious concern over the lack of coordination between the state government’s administrative machinery and its government advocates while hearing a petition seeking ₹20 lakh in compensation for the alleged illegal imprisonment of a 16-year-old minor. During the hearing before a single bench of Justice R. Mukhopadhyay, the state’s Chief Secretary appeared before the court through video conferencing.
Court Expresses Displeasure Over Government Lawyers’ Preparation
During the hearing, the court questioned the lack of coordination between the state government’s administrative departments and its advocates. The court orally observed that government lawyers were unable to present the state’s position clearly and effectively, thereby affecting the judicial process.
In response, the Chief Secretary assured the court that necessary steps would be taken to address the lack of coordination between the administrative machinery and government advocates.
Accepting the assurance, the court scheduled the next hearing for November 3. It also granted the Chief Secretary exemption from personal appearance at the next hearing.
What Is the Case About?
The case relates to an alleged snatching incident in the Sadar police station area of Ranchi. According to the allegations, the police arrested the 16-year-old son of petitioner Anita Devi and sent him directly to jail like an adult accused, allegedly without following the legal procedures applicable to juveniles.
After he was sent to jail, his family submitted his birth certificate, which established that he was 16 years old. Following the intervention and directions of the lower court, he was transferred from jail to the observation home for juveniles at Dumardaga.
Mother Seeks ₹20 Lakh Compensation
Alleging that her minor son had been unlawfully sent to jail and that his rights had been violated, Anita Devi approached the Jharkhand High Court. Through her petition, she has sought ₹20 lakh in compensation from the state government.
Advocate Venkatesh Kumar appeared on behalf of the petitioner. The matter is scheduled to come up for its next hearing on November 3, 2026.
