The Chief Minister stated that travel costs and distance make legal remedies difficult for southern citizens and economically weaker sections.
Tamil Nadu Chief Minister C Joseph Vijay wrote to Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday, requesting the establishment of a Supreme Court bench in Chennai. According to reports by The Hindu, Deccan Chronicle, and Deccan Herald, the Chief Minister urged the Prime Minister to take steps to reconsider the long-standing demand.
Vijay noted that the request was first made by the state in 1980. He argued that the distance to New Delhi and the associated travel costs prevent citizens in southern states and those from economically weaker sections from accessing remedies under Article 32 of the Constitution.
The Chief Minister pointed out that Article 130 allows the Supreme Court to operate in locations other than New Delhi if the President approves. He suggested Chennai is a suitable location as a major South Indian centre and noted the Madras High Court, established in 1862, is one of the country's oldest chartered High Courts.
Vijay mentioned that during a meeting on August 7, 2007, the Supreme Court's Full Court found no reason to change its previous decisions on regional benches. This was despite Tamil Nadu's offer to provide necessary infrastructure and residential facilities for judges.
The Chief Minister stated that a Chennai bench would support the federal nature of the country. He added that judicial independence would be maintained because administrative control would stay with the Chief Justice of India.
