Prayagraj: A serious allegation of an attempt to influence the judicial process has emerged during the hearing of the high-profile ₹900 crore codeine-based cough syrup smuggling case in the Allahabad High Court. The court was hearing 76 bail petitions linked to the case, and the final hearing had already concluded with orders expected to be delivered. However, allegations surfaced that attempts were made by concerned parties to establish contact with the presiding judge before the order was pronounced. Following the development, Justice Krishan Pahal recused himself from hearing the matter.
Justice Krishan Pahal expressed strong displeasure over the incident and termed it a “dark day in the history of the judiciary.” The court observed that any attempt to approach a judge in a pending matter with the intention of influencing the judicial process amounts to a direct attack on judicial independence. The court emphasised that judicial orders are passed solely on the basis of law, facts and records, and any possibility of external interference can weaken public confidence in the justice delivery system.
The court remarked that ignoring such attempts would send a wrong message that judicial decisions can be influenced. It observed that even if an order is completely based on legal principles and available evidence, any effort to establish external contact or exert influence over a judge can raise doubts about the fairness and impartiality of the decision.
The High Court stated that such conduct is against judicial discipline, professional ethics and constitutional values. Following this, all related bail petitions and connected matters were directed to be placed before the Chief Justice for allocation to a new bench. The matters are expected to be listed before the newly constituted bench on August 7, 2026.
The codeine cough syrup smuggling case came to light in 2025 after the Food Safety and Drug Administration launched a campaign against the illegal sale and distribution of cough syrup and other narcotic substances. During the investigation, agencies allegedly found that certain wholesale medicine traders from Uttar Pradesh and Madhya Pradesh had developed a network to transport large quantities of codeine-based cough syrup through Uttar Pradesh and Bihar to Bangladesh.
According to investigating agencies, evidence was found indicating that codeine-based cough syrup worth around ₹900 crore was allegedly transported to Bangladesh through the network. During the crackdown, 371 accused persons have been arrested from 37 districts, while legal action has been initiated against 167 firms. Investigators have also claimed that evidence of illegal earnings amounting to around ₹834 crore has been found.
The name of Shubham Jaiswal has emerged as one of the key accused in the case. He has been absconding for a long time and is reportedly hiding in Dubai. Investigating agencies have issued an Interpol Red Corner Notice against him, but his extradition has not yet been completed.
The Special Task Force (STF) has filed a chargesheet running into around 40,000 pages against 12 accused, including Amit Singh Tata and Alok Singh. Apart from them, action has also been taken against several accused persons including Bhola Prasad Jaiswal, Vishal Singh and Vihor Rana. Agencies have also reported the seizure of properties worth around ₹100 crore allegedly acquired through illegal activities.
Investigations have revealed that the large-scale network involved multiple layers, and agencies are examining the role of wholesale traders, pharmaceutical companies, supply chain operators and financial transactions linked to the alleged smuggling operation. The involvement of certain influential individuals and officials is also being examined, though further investigation is underway.
Codeine-based cough syrup is generally used for treating severe dry cough, but it is also misused as an intoxicating substance. Due to its potential misuse, authorities closely monitor its sale and distribution. Following the latest development in the High Court, the case will now be heard by a new bench, while investigating agencies continue to trace other accused persons and associates linked to the alleged smuggling network.
About the author — Suvedita Nath is a science student with a growing interest in cybercrime and digital safety. She writes on online activity, cyber threats, and technology-driven risks. Her work focuses on clarity, accuracy, and public awareness.
