Approaching the Punjab & Haryana High Court: Writs, Bail, Quashing and Appeals

The High Court of Punjab and Haryana at Chandigarh is the common High Court for the States of Punjab and Haryana and the Union Territory of Chandigarh. For litigants in Gurugram and across both States, it is where many matters are finally decided.

Writ petitions

Under Articles 226 and 227 of the Constitution, the High Court can issue writs to enforce fundamental and legal rights and to correct errors of authorities and subordinate courts. Common examples include service matters, challenges to orders of government departments and authorities, and petitions for protection.

Bail

Applications for regular bail (Section 483 of the BNSS) and anticipatory bail (Section 482 of the BNSS) may be made to the High Court, usually after the Sessions Court has declined relief.

Quashing of FIRs and proceedings

The High Court's inherent powers — now in Section 528 of the BNSS, corresponding to Section 482 of the old Code — can be invoked to quash an FIR or criminal proceedings, for instance where no offence is made out, or where the parties have genuinely settled a dispute that is essentially private in nature.

Revisions and appeals

Criminal revisions and appeals against convictions and acquittals, civil revisions and regular second appeals, and appeals from tribunals where the statute provides for them, are heard by the High Court.

How a matter proceeds

• Drafting the petition with certified copies of the orders and documents relied on
• Filing (including e-filing) and removal of any office objections
• Listing before the appropriate bench — urgent matters may be mentioned for early listing
• Notice to the other side, replies and final hearing

Timelines vary with the nature of the case and the court's roster. Preparation — complete records and a clear statement of the grounds — makes the most difference.

Read more on anticipatory bail under the BNSS or see our criminal law practice.

This article is for general information only and is not legal advice.