Allahabad HC Summons Kheri SP Khyati Garg Over Investigation Delay, Warns of Contempt Action

The Allahabad High Court’s Lucknow Bench has summoned Lakhimpur Kheri SP Dr Khyati Garg over an alleged delay in transferring an investigation despite earlier directions. The court has sought an explanation and warned that contempt proceedings may be initiated if non-compliance is established.

Post Published By: Subhash Raturi

Updated : 25 August 2026, 1:47 PM IST

Allahabad High Court summons Lakhimpur Kheri SP Dr Khyati Garg over delay in transferring an investigation despite earlier directions

Lucknow: The Allahabad High Court’s Lucknow Bench has taken a strict view of the alleged delay in transferring an investigation by Lakhimpur Kheri Police and summoned Superintendent of Police Dr Khyati Garg to appear personally before the court.

The single-judge Bench of Justice Saurabh Lavania on Monday directed the IPS officer to explain why the investigation was not transferred despite an earlier order issued by the Inspector General (IG), Lucknow Zone.

The order was passed in Contempt Application (Civil) No. 3336 of 2026. Lakhimpur Kheri SP Dr Khyati Garg was directed to remain personally present and explain the reason behind the pending investigation transfer.

The case relates to an investigation transfer order issued by the Inspector General, Lucknow Zone, on July 14, 2026. However, according to the proceedings, the transfer had not been completed despite the direction. The court questioned why the order had not been implemented and sought clarification from the senior police officer.

Contempt Action Under Scanner

The High Court also examined whether the delay in implementing the order could amount to non-compliance of judicial directions and attracted offence under the Contempt of Courts Act, 1971.

Contempt proceedings are initiated when authorities or individuals fail to comply with court orders or interfere with the administration of justice. In this case, the court will assess whether there was deliberate or unexplained non-compliance. The final decision on initiating further action will depend on the explanation submitted by the Kheri SP during the hearing.

SP Was Aware of Proceedings

During the hearing, the single-judge Bench noted that Dr Khyati Garg was aware about the pending contempt proceedings. The court also observed that the officer had provided instructions to advocate Nitin Mathur, who appeared on behalf of the Uttar Pradesh government in the matter.

Despite the awareness of the proceedings, the investigation transfer issue remained unresolved, it noted, summoning the personal appearance of the IPS officer on the next date of hearing.