Kochi: Chief Justice of India (CJI) Surya Kant on Sunday raised concerns over delays in judicial proceedings and called for improvements in the way urgent cases are identified and heard by courts. He questioned whether the judicial system could become more responsive, particularly as litigants increasingly approach the Supreme Court seeking urgent hearings in matters pending before High Courts.
Speaking at the platinum jubilee celebrations of the Kerala High Court in Kochi, the CJI stressed the need to make the judicial process more transparent, accessible and efficient.
"Can urgent matters be identified more effectively? Can listing procedures be made more transparent and predictable?" Justice Kant asked.
He also highlighted the potential role of technology in identifying and prioritising cases where delays could cause irreversible harm. He questioned whether access to timely justice should depend on a litigant's ability to travel to New Delhi.
The CJI emphasised that the Supreme Court has consistently respected the institutional autonomy of High Courts, including their authority to manage their own judicial rosters. However, he said the growing frequency of requests for urgent intervention from the Supreme Court should encourage the judiciary to examine its existing procedures.
Highlighting the importance of India's 25 High Courts, Justice Kant said constitutional justice does not begin and end in New Delhi. According to him, High Courts play a crucial role in protecting citizens' rights because they remain closely connected to local communities, regional issues and everyday grievances.
Referring to Article 226 of the Constitution, he underlined the wide powers of High Courts to provide remedies in legal, administrative, statutory and contractual disputes. He also stressed that timely interim relief can sometimes make the difference between justice and injustice.
Recalling the Kerala High Court's contribution over seven decades, the CJI praised its role in protecting fundamental rights and strengthening constitutional values. He particularly mentioned its landmark 1999 order prohibiting smoking in public places, describing it as an example of judicial foresight.
Justice Kant concluded by emphasising that all constitutional courts must maintain their independence while working together to strengthen the country's justice delivery system.
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