Allahabad High Court 1866-1966

ALLAHABAD HIGH COURT

Technical Data

Date of Issue November 25, 1966
Denomination 15 nP
Quantity 1,000,000
Perforation comb 14½ x 14
Printer Security Printing Press, Nashik
Watermark No Watermark
Colors Purple
Catalog Codes

Michel IN 418

Stamp Number IN 441

Yvert et Tellier IN 214

Stanley Gibbons IN 539

Themes

The High Court of Judicature at Allahabad holds a significant place in the legal history of India. Established by the Letters Patent issued on March 17th, 1866, it ranks as the fourth oldest High Court in the country and is also the largest. Initially known as the High Court for the North-Western Provinces, it was situated in Agra from 1866 to 1868 before relocating to Allahabad in 1869.

The current building, situated on Hastings Road, saw its foundation laid on March 18th, 1911, and was inaugurated by the Viceroy & Governor General of India on November 27th, 1916. Over the years, with the expansion of the judiciary, new wings have been added, and a separate Advocate’s Block has been constructed to accommodate the growing needs of the legal fraternity.

The amalgamation of the Oudh Chief Court and the Allahabad High Court took place on July 26th, 1948, further solidifying its stature. From a modest beginning with five judges in 1866, the Allahabad High Court now boasts a total of 38 judges.

This esteemed institution has been graced by the presence of eminent judges such as Morgan, Stanley, Mahmood, Edge, Henry Richards, Lindsay, Sulaiman, P. C. Banerji, Lal Gopal Mukerji, and many others. The Bar of the Allahabad High Court is equally illustrious, with notable lawyers like Pt. Ayodhya Nath, Munshi Hanuman Prasad, Sir Sundar Lal, Pt. Moti Lal Nehru, and Sir Tej Bahadur Sapru leaving an indelible mark on its legacy.

Prominent figures from various walks of life, including politics, have been associated with the Allahabad High Court. Leaders like Pt. Jawahar Lal Nehru, Pt. Moti Lal Nehru, Pt. Madan Mohan Malviya, Sir Tej Bahadur Sapru, and Rajarshi P. D. Tandon were not only instrumental in the struggle for independence but also contributed significantly to the social and educational upliftment of the nation.

Members of the Bar, such as Sir Tej Bahadur Sapru, Pt. Jagat Narain Mulla, and Dr. Kailas Nath Katju, have held esteemed positions in the Central and State Governments, further highlighting the influence and importance of the Allahabad High Court in shaping India’s legal and political landscape.