Lucknow: In a major development involving the Lucknow Municipal Corporation, the Lucknow Bench of the Allahabad High Court has ordered the freezing of the financial and administrative powers of Lucknow Mayor Sushma Kharkwal. The court took strict action after an elected councillor from Ward No. 73, Faizullaganj, was allegedly not administered the oath of office for nearly five months despite judicial directions.
The court’s observations have triggered intense political and legal debate in Uttar Pradesh, with the judiciary making it clear that non-compliance with court orders will not be tolerated. The matter had already seen directions issued at both the High Court and Supreme Court levels, yet the oath ceremony reportedly remained pending.
The dispute is linked to Ward No. 73, Faizullaganj, where Lalit Kishore Tiwari was declared elected councillor after the completion of the election process. However, despite the legal formalities being completed, he was allegedly denied the oath required to formally assume office.
The issue was subsequently brought before the Lucknow Bench of the High Court. Senior advocate Gaurav Mehrotra, appearing for the petitioner, argued that preventing an elected public representative from taking oath for such an extended period undermines democratic principles and the constitutional mandate of local governance.
The High Court, while taking note of the prolonged delay, adopted a stern position and ordered the seizure of the mayor’s financial and administrative powers until compliance with judicial directions is ensured. The order is being viewed as a significant assertion of judicial accountability in matters related to elected institutions and civic administration.
