SC Upholds Gauhati HC Authority, Rejects Plea Against Assam CM

February 16, 2026

New Delhi: The Supreme Court of India on Monday refused to entertain a batch of petitions seeking legal action against Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma, emphasising that petitioners must first approach the Gauhati High Court with their grievances. The top court underscored the importance of respecting the jurisdiction and authority of high courts in such matters.

SC Directs Petitioners to High Court

A bench of the Supreme Court led by Chief Justice of India Surya Kant made it clear that issues concerning the Assam CM should be taken up initially before the high court. The apex court questioned why the petitioners had not filed their pleas in the Gauhati High Court first, pointing out that bypassing the high court undermines its authority and jurisdiction in the legal system.

In sharp remarks, the bench noted that the growing trend of approaching the Supreme Court directly has led to depriving high courts of their rightful role on matters such as these, and that petitioners must respect constitutional procedures.

Allegations and Petitions in Question

The pleas before the Supreme Court included calls for action against the Assam CM over controversial incidents, including a viral video purportedly showing him taking aim and firing a rifle and allegations of discriminatory remarks tied to community tensions. Petitioners sought directions for investigations and possible legal action, but the Supreme Court opted not to hear these matters directly.

SC’s Emphasis on Constitutional Morality

While refusing to hear the pleas, the bench underscored the importance of exercising restraint and staying within the boundaries of constitutional morality, especially given the sensitive nature of the approaching Assembly elections in Assam. It reiterated that constitutional courts must function within their defined legal limits and respect established judicial processes.

The Supreme Court also suggested that the Chief Justice of the Gauhati High Court should ensure an expeditious hearing of the petitions once they are filed there.

Political and Legal Implications

This development holds significant political and legal implications, as the petitions were linked to conduct and public statements involving a sitting chief minister. By directing the matters to the Gauhati High Court, the Supreme Court has set a precedent reinforcing the traditional hierarchy of judicial forums and underlined the authority of high courts in handling politically sensitive disputes.

The High Court is now expected to take up the related petitions and hear the issues on their merits. The Supreme Court’s remarks also reflect continuing judicial concern over the “flood” of matters being filed directly in the apex court without first resorting to appropriate remedies in lower courts.