Overview
- The Surajpur fast-track court rejected the Uttar Pradesh government's move to withdraw prosecution in the 2015 Dadri lynching, calling it a serious crime against society.
- The judge directed day-to-day hearings, labeled the matter "most important," and asked senior police officials to ensure protection of evidence and witnesses.
- The state had cited inconsistent statements, lack of seized firearms or sharp weapons, and no prior enmity as grounds for withdrawal under Section 321 CrPC.
- Government counsel said he was acting on orders, while lawyers for Akhlaq’s family argued there was no concrete basis for withdrawal and suggested political motives.
- Eighteen people were arrested in the case, including three minors, with two accused now deceased and most others out on bail; the next hearing is set for January 6, 2026, as Akhlaq’s wife pursues a challenge in the Allahabad High Court.