DEEPA RAM MEGHWAL Vs. SATE OF RAJASTHAN

JUDGEMENT

(1.) INTRODUCTION

(2.) Before adverting to the issues arising for determination, this Court considers it apposite to briefly delineate the factual matrix of each case, particularly the contents of the respective FIRs forming the substratum of the present petitions. Such an exercise is deemed necessary so as to comprehensively appreciate the controversy involved, to identify the common threads running through these matters, and to distinctly segregate the issues, if any, peculiar to certain petitions. Accordingly, a concise synopsis of the FIRs in all the writ and misc. petitions is set out hereinafter.

(3.) Learned counsel for the petitioners submits that the pernicious practice of extra-constitutional assemblies, commonly known as Khap Panchayats, has continued to subsist in society for a considerable period of time. It is contended that the diktats and actions emanating from such bodies are ex facie violative of the fundamental rights guaranteed to the citizens, particularly those enshrined under Part III of the Constitution. It is further urged that there exists an apparent legislative vacuum in effectively addressing and curbing this social menace. Aggrieved by the inaction and the continuing infringement of their rights, the petitioners have been constrained to invoke the extraordinary jurisdiction of this Court.