Allahabad High Court Judge Recuses from 74 Bail Pleas in ₹2,000 Crore Codeine Syrup Case, Calls It a “Black Day” for Judiciary

Prayagraj: In a major development linked to the alleged ₹2,000 crore codeine-based cough syrup trafficking case, an Allahabad High Court judge has recused himself from hearing dozens of bail applications after reporting attempts by litigants to privately approach him while the matter was pending before the court.

Justice Krishan Pahal withdrew from hearing 74 connected bail applications related to the case, describing the episode as a “black day in the history of the court.” The decision came amid concerns over the sanctity of judicial proceedings and the independence of the judiciary.

According to the court's observations, the integrity of the judicial system depends on public confidence that justice is delivered impartially and without external influence. Justice Pahal stated that any attempt by a litigant or lawyer to establish extra-judicial communication with a judge regarding a pending matter is incompatible with legal ethics and constitutional principles.

The judge noted that efforts were allegedly made to gain access to and approach the court after the matters had been fixed for hearing. Expressing deep concern, he observed that even subtle attempts to influence judicial decision-making amount to a direct challenge to the rule of law and judicial independence.

To ensure complete transparency and eliminate any apprehension regarding impartiality, Justice Pahal ordered that all the connected bail matters be released from his board and placed before the Chief Justice for assignment to another appropriate bench.

About the Alleged Codeine Syrup Syndicate

The case pertains to an alleged interstate codeine cough syrup trafficking network that has been under investigation by multiple agencies, including the Enforcement Directorate (ED). Investigators claim that the syndicate illegally distributed large quantities of codeine-based cough syrup to traffickers operating in parts of eastern India and across the Bangladesh border.

One of the key accused is alleged kingpin Shubham Jaiswal, who remains absconding. Authorities have filed multiple charge sheets, made several arrests, and attached properties allegedly linked to the proceeds of crime. The bail applications before the High Court were connected to various accused arrested during the investigation.

Investigative agencies have alleged that the illegal network generated hundreds of crores of rupees through the diversion and unlawful sale of narcotic-containing cough syrup. However, the allegations remain subject to judicial scrutiny, and the guilt or innocence of the accused will be determined during the course of legal proceedings.

Judiciary Emphasizes Independence

Legal observers have described the recusal order as a strong message on judicial ethics and institutional integrity. While the judge's decision does not affect the merits of the criminal case, it highlights the judiciary's commitment to ensuring that court proceedings remain free from any perception of external influence.

The bail pleas will now be listed before a newly constituted bench in accordance with the Allahabad High Court's administrative procedures.