On February 23, 2026, the Supreme Court observed that its 2018 guidelines to curb cow vigilantism were “unmanageable” and declined to enforce them — a significant constitutional development often analysed in UPSC coaching in Hyderabad.
Background
2018 Judgment (Dipak Misra Bench)
• Issued directives to Centre and States to prevent lynching and mob violence in the name of cow protection.
• Stressed that lynching “must be curbed and crippled” and that the state has a sacrosanct duty to protect citizens.
• Current Position (2026)
• CJI Surya Kant stated that each case should be dealt with individually.
• Citizens can seek legal remedies if rights are infringed.
• Court refused contempt action against States despite allegations of voter roll manipulation and vigilante empowerment — a constitutional debate frequently covered in IAS coaching in Hyderabad.
Key Concerns
• Judicial Retreat: Court distancing itself from monitoring implementation of its own guidelines.
• State Complicity: In several States, vigilantes have been given quasi-policing powers.
• Rule of Law: Police often overlook or encourage mob violence, undermining constitutional safeguards.
• Majoritarian Politics: Vigilantism receives political backing, weakening protection for minorities.
Importance of Citizen Privacy & Rights
• Right to Life and Liberty (Article 21): Protection against mob violence is a constitutional guarantee.
• Right to Vote (Article 326): Any irregularity in voter rolls or intimidation undermines democracy.
• Judicial Oversight: Courts must act as guardians of fundamental rights when executive fails.
Challenges
• Implementation Gap: States ignoring Supreme Court directives.
• Politicisation: Vigilantism often receives tacit support from ruling parties.
• Weak Policing: Law enforcement either inactive or complicit.
• Judicial Diffidence: Courts reluctant to enforce accountability.
Way Forward
• Strict Enforcement: Supreme Court must ensure compliance with its own guidelines.
• Police Reform: Strengthen accountability mechanisms to curb mob violence.
• Depoliticisation: End political patronage of vigilante groups.
• Awareness & Community Action: Promote social harmony and discourage mob justice — themes regularly discussed in UPSC online coaching.
Conclusion
The Supreme Court’s reluctance to enforce its 2018 directives on cow vigilantism signals a serious setback to rule of law. Upholding fairness, justice, and accountability is essential for the credibility of Indian democracy — a critical GS2 topic for aspirants enrolled in civils coaching in Hyderabad.
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