Patna: In an extraordinary sitting, the Patna High Court disposed of 510 regular bail applications in a single day, drawing attention for both the scale and the speed of the proceedings.
The cases were heard by a single-judge bench of R P Mishra, who dealt with applications arising largely under the Excise and Prohibition Act. Court observers said each matter was concluded in an average of about 30 seconds, making the session a landmark moment in the court’s recent history.
More than 90% of the applicants were granted bail, a result that lawyers described as both surprising and deeply relieving for accused persons and their families. Many of the cases had been pending for extended periods, adding to the mounting backlog linked to Bihar’s liquor prohibition regime.
Despite the rapid pace, the court conducted brief but focused hearings, considering the nature of the allegations, the specific charges and earlier judicial orders before pronouncing decisions. Lawyers present said the approach demonstrated that speed and judicial scrutiny need not be mutually exclusive.
“This is a strong example of speedy justice,” said a senior advocate, adding that such hearings could significantly ease the pressure on trial courts overwhelmed by prohibition-related litigation.
Legal practitioners said the mass disposal of cases would help reduce pendency while reinforcing public confidence in the justice system, particularly for those facing prolonged uncertainty over minor or routine offences under the excise law.
