As many as 256 criminal cases are pending against lawmakers, including sitting or former MPs and MLAs, of Kerala till April 4, 2026. Trial is yet to begin in a large number of such cases due to the delay in serving summons and warrants to the accused, according to the State police.
The delay in completing the legal proceedings against the lawmakers came to light when the High Court sought a report from the Registrar (district judiciary) on the position of the cases in the various special courts set up for trying them. The report indicated that 22 cases against lawmakers have been delayed for more than two years, and nine have been pending for over five years due to delay in executing summons and warrants. The court has asked the State police to execute warrants in these 31 pending cases.
As per another report submitted by the Kerala Police to the High Court, 247 cases are pending trial and nine are in the investigation stage. The court had initiated suo motu proceedings in the case following a directive from the Supreme Court, which is monitoring the progress of pending criminal cases against sitting or former MPs or MLAs.
A large number of cases booked against the legislators include unlawful assembly, rioting and offences against public tranquillity, which were invoked following the public protests organised by them. A few face serious offences. The Registrar also pointed out that there was a delay in the execution of summons and warrants despite the appointment of Nodal Officers in the Police department.
Guidelines for courts
The Supreme Court had formulated certain general guidelines for the courts to ensure the completion of investigations, the conduct of trials, and the conclusion of cases at the earliest.
The High Courts were directed to consider criminal cases against MPs and MLAs punishable with death or life imprisonment first, then cases punishable with imprisonment, and finally other cases.
The district judiciary should ensure sufficient infrastructure for the cases’ speedy disposal. The top court had also directed that an independent tab on the High Court website be created, providing district-wise information in these matters.
Published – July 06, 2026 12:50 am IST
