India, Sept. 9 -- The Supreme Court on Wednesday allowed the Himachal Pradesh government to withdraw prosecution in 39 criminal cases against former and sitting lawmakers, noting that the cases were linked to the politicians holding protests during the Covid-19 pandemic.

"None of the cases shows any grave or heinous crimes nor any remote suggestion that the accused are hardened criminals or have indulged in repeat offences," a bench of Chief Justice of India Surya Kant and justices Joymalya Bagchi and V Mohana.

"Continuation of prosecution in these cases will not serve the cause of administration of justice. On the other hand, it will slow the progress of trial in other serious cases which courts are expected to decide finally," the top...