Quashing of Criminal Proceedings u/s 528 BNSS by Higher Court: Supreme Court’s Four-Step Test & Grounds Explained

quashing of criminal case in India under section 482 CrPC or 528 BNSS or Article 226 of the Constitution of India.

The Supreme Court’s 2025 ruling in Pradeep Kumar Kesarwani v. State of U.P. clarifies when High Courts can quash criminal proceedings under Section 482 CrPC and Section 528 BNSS. This article explains the Court’s structured four-step test, revisits the Bhajan Lal principles, and provides a practical, litigation-oriented guide for lawyers seeking quashing before the High Courts and Supreme Court.