The Uttarakhand High Court will move from Nainital to Haldwani. The Supreme Court cleared the way for this shift on 15 July 2026. Notably, it ordered the state to hand over land at Gaulapar in Haldwani. Moreover, it set aside an earlier High Court order on the matter.
What the Supreme Court Decided
A bench led by Chief Justice Surya Kant heard the case. Also, Justices Joymalya Bagchi and V Mohana were on the bench. The Court gave these key directions:
- The state must hand over 26 hectares at Gaulapar, Haldwani.
- It must do so within six weeks, on an “as is, where is” basis.
- A formal notification should follow within eight weeks.
- The greenery of the area should not be disturbed.
Earlier High Court Order Set Aside
In 2024, the High Court had rejected the Gaulapar site. It had cited that about 75 per cent of the land was forest. However, the Supreme Court said relocation is an administrative matter. Therefore, it set aside the earlier order, including a direction for a referendum on the shift. Also, it said careful planning can manage environmental concerns.
Why Shift From Nainital?
The High Court itself had listed many problems at Nainital. For example, these include traffic jams and poor connectivity. Similarly, Nainital has limited medical facilities and housing. Also, the cost of living is high, especially for young lawyers. Furthermore, litigants from remote districts face great hardship. Hence, a more accessible location became necessary.
About the Uttarakhand High Court
The Uttarakhand High Court was set up on 9 November 2000 at Nainital. It came into being along with the new state. Notably, the state capital, Dehradun, is in Garhwal. However, the High Court sits in Kumaon. So, the shift to Haldwani keeps it in the Kumaon region.
Why the Uttarakhand High Court Shift Matters for UKPSC
Notably, UKPSC often asks about the state’s key institutions. So, remember the new site, the land area and the bench. Also, note the date the High Court was set up. For official updates, also visit the Uttarakhand High Court website. Next, for a related story, read about Uttarakhand’s 98 GIS-based master plans. You can also download our free Uttarakhand Current Affairs magazine.
So, are you preparing for the UKPSC Upper PCS 2026 prelims? Then join our UKPSC 2026 Prelims Test Series for regular practice.