In Brief
The Union of India sought to challenge a High Court bail order in a narcotics case, but filed the appeal 607 days after the order was passed. The Supreme Court dismissed the petition, holding that excessive delay in prosecuting a remedy is grounds for dismissal, even where substantive legal issues remain unaddressed. The Court rejected the explanation of administrative negligence, noting that modern technology makes file-shuffling between departments inexcusable. The judgment criticizes petitions filed merely to obtain a dismissal 'certificate' from the Supreme Court to shield officers from accountability, and imposed costs of Rs. 25,000 on the petitioner, with directions for action against responsible officers."
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