Lakhimpur Kheri case trial: Supreme Court permits only one representative from each victim family, accused during proceedings

In order to ensure that trial proceedings were conducted smoothly and no impediment was caused by anyone, the Supreme Court ruled that nobody except the accused, victims’ representatives and their lawyers should remain present in the Sessions Court, which is holding trial in cases related to the Lakhimpur Kheri violence.

The Bench of Justice Surya Kant and Justice J.K. Maheshwari passed the orders on request of
the victims’ lawyer, who claimed that a large number of supporters of Ashish Mishra, an accused in the case, were usually present during the trial court proceedings, creating an ‘intimidatory’ atmosphere.

Ashish Mishra is son of Union Minister Ajay Mishra.

The Apex Court observed that it was passing the order to ensure that trial proceedings in the Sessions Court of Lakhimpur Kheri in Uttar Pradesh were conducted smoothly.

The charge was denied by the Defence lawyer, who claimed that there were more people from the victims’ side and suggested in-camera proceedings.

The court said it was passing the order to ensure that trial proceedings in the sessions court in Lakhimpur Kheri in Uttar Pradesh were conducted smoothly.

“With a view to ensure that trial proceedings are conducted smoothly and no impediment is caused by anyone,

It directed that the accused in both the FIRs and one representative of the victim or complainant were permitted to attend the court proceedings along with their respective Counsels.

Perusing a February 7 letter sent by the First Additional District and Sessions Judge at Lakhimpur Kheri, the Supreme Court said it appreciated the Presiding Officer taking prompt and necessary action to ensure that summoned witnesses remained present in the court.

The matter was posted for hearing on March 14.