JAI RAO Vs. STATE OF RAJASTHAN

JUDGEMENT

(1.) In the present batch of writ petitions, the scope of controversy involved, albeit not limited to but is broadly and predominantly defined by the plea made seeking compliance of the lyngdoh committee recommendation (committee appointed by the Hon'ble Supreme Court in the case of University of Kerala v. Council, Principal Education, Kerala and ors., in Civil Appeal No. 887/2009) at point number 6.4.2 which purposes for yearly conduct of the student union elections; within six-eight weeks from the date of the commencement of the academic session. Consecutively, considering the fact that the writ petitions warrant adjudication on common questions of law and fact; with consent of the learned counsel appearing on behalf of the parties, SBCWP No. 11354/2025 titled as Jai Rao Vs. State Of Rajasthan And Ors., is being taken up as the lead case. It is cautiously clarified that any discrepancies in the present petitions, pertain purely to the factual narratives contained therein, and not vis  -vis the questions of law to be determined by this Court; the instant judgment shall be applicable on all the petitions connected herein/henceforth on mutatis mutandis basis.

(2.) Before proceeding to the merits and demerits of the case at hand, this Court finds it appropriate to extend its sincere gratitude to the learned amicus curiae for his valuable assistance provided during the course of these proceedings. The submissions and insights offered by the learned amicus curiae have been of significant aid in clarifying complex legal and factual issues pertinent to the matter. Thence, the Court recognizes and appreciates the impartial and professional manner in which the learned amicus curiae has approached the matter, ensuring that the focus remained squarely on the advancement of justice. The Court is, therefore, grateful for the thoughtful and impartial perspectives offered, which have undeniably enhanced the quality of the proceedings.

(3.) The present batch of writ petitions has been filed invoking the extraordinary jurisdiction of this Court under Article 226 of the Constitution of India. The petitioners have raised grievances regarding the respondents' failure to conduct the annual student elections for the academic session 2025-2026. The petitioners contend that the non-conduct of the elections is in violation of the directives set forth in the ratio of University of Kerala (supra), as well as the binding principles established by the Larger Bench of the Rajasthan High Court in the matter of Rajasthan High Court Advocates Association, Jodhpur & Anr. v. State of Rajasthan & Ors. (WRW No. 15/2005). It is contended that the respondents' actions are inconsistent with the judgment of the Larger Bench, which mandates the continuation of student elections in compliance with the recommendations of the Lyngdoh Committee. The petitioners seek adjudication on the primary issue: "Whether student elections should be held in educational institutions in the State of Rajasthan; at what time such elections should be conducted; by what mode the elections should be held; and who shall be the competent authority to regulate such elections?" The petitioners, therefore, seek appropriate reliefs in the form of directions to the respondents to ensure the holding of student elections as per the constitutional mandates, judicial precedents, and the guidelines laid down by the Lyngdoh Committee.