Allahabad High Court: Why did Justice Subhash Vidyarthi distance himself from Rahul Gandhi citizenship case? Know what is Recusal

News India Live, Digital Desk: The petition related to the allegations of dual citizenship of Congress MP Rahul Gandhi was to be heard in Allahabad High Court on Monday (20 April 2026). However, as soon as the hearing began, Justice Subhash Vidyarthi refused to hear the case. He clarified that he will not hear the case and directed to send the file to the Chief Justice (CBI) so that a new bench can be constituted.1. Why did Justice Subhash Vidyarthi recuse? Justice Vidyarthi did not publicly record the clear reason behind his withdrawal during the court proceedings, but some possible reasons are being discussed in the legal circles: Protocol and Ethics: Often judges ‘Recuse’ (recuse) when they feel that they have some past association with a party or their involvement in the case may raise questions on impartiality. Prior Association: Justice Vidyarthi indicated that he would not recuse himself in this case. He has been aware of any party or issue related to the case in some form or the other, hence following the principle of ‘justice should not only be done, but should also be seen to be done’, he took this decision.2. What is the dispute over Rahul Gandhi’s citizenship? This petition was filed by S., a BJP worker from Karnataka. It has been filed by Vignesh Subramaniam. Allegation: The petitioner claims that Rahul Gandhi has British citizenship and he has hidden it in the information given during the elections. Demand: The petition demands that the CBI conduct a detailed investigation into the matter and if proof of citizenship is found, Rahul Gandhi’s Parliament membership should be cancelled.3. Legal Dictionary: What is ‘Recusal’? When a judge recuses himself from hearing a case, it is called ‘Recusal’. Reason: This happens when the judge has financial interest in a party, has a family relationship, or has previously worked in that case as a lawyer. Process: After the judge recuses, the case goes to the Chief Justice, who decides which bench will hear it.4. What will happen next? After the removal of Justice Vidyarthi, the file will now go to the Chief Justice of Allahabad High Court. New Bench: It is expected that within the next one or two weeks, a new bench will be formed which will again review these facts related to Rahul Gandhi’s citizenship. Stand of the Home Ministry: Earlier, the Central Government had also indicated that the Ministry is investigating the complaints related to citizenship at its own level.