M/s Ramjilal Mohanlal v Union of India, Rajasthan High Court, D.B. Civil Writ Petition No. 7616/2024, 29 January 2026

The Rajasthan High Court quashed an appellate order on the grounds that it violated the fundamental principle of natural justice, nemo judex in causa sua (no one should be a judge in their own cause). The petitioner challenged a decision passed by an Additional Commissioner who had served a dual role in the proceedings: first as the authorizing authority for the initial inspection and search of the petitioner’s premises, and later as the Appellate Authority deciding the appeal arising from those very search proceedings.  

The Court held that such a dual exercise of power offends institutional impartiality and creates an inherent bias. Consequently, the High Court set aside the impugned appellate order and remanded the matter with a specific direction that the appeal be heard and decided afresh by a different competent Appellate Authority to ensure a fair and unbiased adjudication. 

Last Updated on 3 August, 2026