CJI Surya Kant calls for introspection to improve judicial responsiveness
The Chief Justice of India suggested that courts must improve case listing transparency and timely intervention to ensure justice.
Chief Justice of India Surya Kant on Sunday called for introspection regarding the responsiveness of the judicial process. Speaking at the platinum jubilee celebrations of the Kerala High Court in Kochi, the CJI noted a growing tendency of litigants to approach the Supreme Court for urgent listing or early hearings of matters pending before High Courts.
According to the Times of India, the CJI said the difference between justice and injustice can lie in whether a court intervenes when such intervention is most needed. He suggested that the judiciary, particularly constitutional courts, should introspect to make the listing of cases more transparent and predictable.
The CJI questioned whether technology could assist in prioritising cases where delay might cause irreversible prejudice. He also asked if the process could ensure that a litigant's access to timely justice does not depend on their ability to travel to the national capital.
Justice Kant stated that constitutional justice in India does not begin and end in New Delhi. He said the strength of the system lies in the network of 25 High Courts across the country, which are tasked with protecting rights and upholding the rule of law.
Highlighting the significance of Article 226, the CJI said High Courts have a wide canvas to fashion remedies for diverse legal, statutory, administrative and contractual disputes. He noted that High Courts are closely connected to the everyday realities of people and have the power to grant timely interim protection.