A critical call for institutional self-reflection has been made to enhance efficiency and urgency across the Indian judicial machinery. Chief Justice of India (CJI) Surya Kant observed on November 1 that there is a noticeable rise in litigants approaching the Supreme Court simply to seek urgent or expedited hearings for cases already pending before various High Courts. Emphasising the foundational principles of the judiciary, he stated that the Supreme Court has consistently respected the institutional autonomy of High Courts, including their dedicated authority to determine their own roosters. However, the rising volume of such intervention requests prompts serious reflection on whether existing judicial processes have room to improve promptness.
Crucial Questions Raised at Kerala High Court Anniversary
Addressing an event organized to commemorate 75 years of the establishment of the Kerala High Court, the Chief Justice posed several pivotal questions regarding modern judicial functioning. He questioned whether cases demanding immediate and urgent hearings could be categorized and identified with greater effectiveness. Furthermore, he highlighted the necessity of making the listing procedure for hearings significantly more transparent and predictable for everyone involved. Exploring technological interventions, he asked whether technology could be deployed to prioritize matters where unexpected delays might inflict irreparable harm on the parties. Crucially, he questioned whether the legal framework can ensure that an ordinary citizen's ability to secure timely justice does not hinge on whether they have the financial and physical means to travel to the national capital.
The Vital Role of the 25 Constitutional High Courts
Elaborating on the architecture of justice delivery across the country, Chief Justice Surya Kant maintained that constitutional justice in India neither originates exclusively in New Delhi nor concludes there. Instead, its core strength resides within the resilient network of the 25 constitutional High Courts operating across the country. Each of these institutions carries the vital constitutional mandate of safeguarding individual rights and upholding the rule of law within their respective jurisdictions.
Deep Connection to Local Realities and Common Grievances
Highlighting the grassroots significance of these state-level judicial bodies, Justice Surya Kant noted that High Courts remain intimately connected to the everyday realities of common citizens. They possess a direct understanding of the nuances of local grievances, comprehend the specific circumstances confronting regional communities, and witness the direct, practical consequences of administrative actions on the ground. Strengthening listing efficiency and prompt disposal within these institutions ensures that citizens need not feel compelled to knock on the doors of the apex court for routine hearing urgency.
