Prayagraj, June 18, 2025 

The Allahabad High Court on Tuesday strongly objected to a police officer appearing in court without the prescribed uniform, terming it a breach of decorum and institutional discipline.

The observation came during the hearing of a habeas corpus petition titled Shikha Singh v. State of U.P. & Others before Justice Saurabh Shyam Shamshery. The officer, a Sub-Inspector, was present in plain clothes during the proceedings, which drew the court’s sharp attention.

In a firm rebuke, the Court stated that all police officials are mandatorily required to appear in proper uniform before the court, barring exceptional circumstances. The Bench noted that uniform is not just attire but a symbol of authority, discipline, and respect for the judicial system.

“Appearing in casuals, especially without any justification or prior permission, reflects an unacceptable disregard for courtroom protocol,” the Court remarked.

Directing the Director General of Police, Uttar Pradesh, to issue necessary instructions across all police departments, the Court warned that any such future lapses may attract departmental action. The Court stressed that police officers, as representatives of the law, must uphold the dignity of legal proceedings.

The matter was adjourned with directions for compliance, and the court reiterated that respect for judicial proceedings begins with adherence to basic formalities such as dress code and conduct.

Case Title: Shikha Singh v. State of U.P. and Others