Chief Justice of India (CJI) D.Y. Chandrachud has issued a powerful call for a significant upgrade and expansion of India's judicial infrastructure. He emphasized that this is a critical step to meet the rising demands of justice delivery and tackle the persistent problem of case backlogs across the country.
The Core Challenge: Outdated Infrastructure Hampering Justice
Speaking at a conference focused on enhancing district judiciary capabilities, Justice Chandrachud pinpointed inadequate physical infrastructure as a major roadblock. He argued that courts often operate from dilapidated buildings lacking basic facilities, which directly impacts their efficiency and the dignity of the judicial process. The CJI stressed that for the judiciary to function effectively and gain public trust, modern, well-equipped courtrooms and facilities are non-negotiable.
He highlighted that the sheer volume of pending cases cannot be addressed solely by appointing more judges. The ecosystem must support their work. This includes not just courtrooms, but also digital libraries, robust IT systems, comfortable waiting areas for litigants, and accessible amenities for people with disabilities. The vision is to create a justice system that is both efficient and humane.
Beyond Buildings: Embracing Technology and Human-Centric Design
The CJI's blueprint extends beyond brick and mortar. He is a strong advocate for integrating cutting-edge technology into the daily functioning of courts. This includes expanding video-conferencing facilities, digitizing court records, and implementing efficient case management systems. Such technological infusion can streamline processes, reduce delays, and make justice more accessible, especially for those in remote areas.
Furthermore, Justice Chandrachud called for a human-centric approach to design. New court complexes should be built with the needs of all stakeholders—judges, lawyers, litigants, and staff—in mind. He mentioned the importance of creating a less intimidating and more welcoming environment for ordinary citizens who approach the courts, often under stressful circumstances.
A Collaborative Effort for a Future-Ready Judiciary
The Chief Justice made it clear that this transformation requires a collaborative effort between the judiciary and the executive branches of government. While the judiciary can identify needs and set standards, the funding and execution of large infrastructure projects largely fall under the domain of state and central governments. He urged for a harmonious partnership to prioritize these projects.
The ultimate goal, as outlined by the CJI, is to build a judicial infrastructure that is future-ready. It must be capable of handling not just today's caseload but also the evolving legal challenges of tomorrow. Investing in infrastructure is an investment in the rule of law and democracy itself, ensuring that the promise of timely justice moves from an ideal to a reality for every Indian citizen.
This push for modernization is seen as a pivotal move to strengthen the third pillar of democracy and restore public confidence by ensuring that courts are not just temples of justice, but also efficient, accessible, and modern institutions.
