CJI Surya Kant Inaugurates Zone II of Telangana High Court Complex in Hyderabad
Chief Justice of India Surya Kant, speaking at the foundation-laying ceremony for Zone II of the new Telangana High Court complex in Rajendranagar, Hyderabad, on Sunday, expressed confidence that the upcoming court could rank among the nation's finest judicial institutions. He extended gratitude to the Telangana state government for allocating 100 acres of land and sanctioning approximately Rs 2,500 crore towards this monumental project.
Distinguished Gathering and Project Details
The significant event was graced by Chief Minister A Revanth Reddy, Supreme Court Justices PS Narasimha, Ujjal Bhuyan, and SV Bhatti, along with Telangana High Court Chief Justice Aparesh Kumar Singh. While Zone I, currently under construction, will house the primary high court buildings, Zone II is designed to feature residential quarters for the Chief Justice and judges, complemented by essential institutional infrastructure.
Justice Kant emphasized that "judicial independence is a practical reality rooted in physical infrastructure." He poetically described the project as a "root system" engineered to sustain the judiciary for the next century, transitioning it from congested urban premises to a self-contained, modern campus.
Historical Context and Nationwide Trend
Tracing the project's origins back to a devastating fire in 2009, the CJI noted that it required nearly two decades of persistent effort and "rare institutional alignment" between the judiciary and the executive to bring this vision to fruition. He highlighted an emerging nationwide trend where state governments are increasingly recognizing judicial infrastructure as an "essential obligation" rather than an optional expenditure.
Justice Kant expressed particular enthusiasm for the planned auditorium and central record room in Zone II, stating they hold a special place in his heart. "A judiciary that ceases to learn will stop evolving," he remarked, noting that these facilities will host judicial conferences and preserve legal precedents, thereby strengthening future judgments.
Three-Stage Journey and Future Vision
Concluding his address, he defined the project's journey through three distinct stages: intent, perseverance, and fulfilment. "A young lawyer starting his/her career decades from now may not know our names, but the quality of this campus will prove that we cared about the future of justice," he added, underscoring the long-term impact of this initiative.
Chief Minister's Commitment and Broader Infrastructure Plans
In his address, Chief Minister A Revanth Reddy affirmed the government's goal to complete the project by December 2027, declaring it a firm commitment of his administration. "Today is a red-letter day. We are taking a step to create a monument for the next century – a crucial pillar for public life," the CM stated.
He described the construction of the new court complex as a rare opportunity for any politician, saying: "One may build a temple, mosque, church or a gurudwara, but building the high court – a temple of justice – for people of all faiths is a rare and once-in-a-lifetime opportunity."
Reddy noted that providing modern infrastructure remains a top priority, with this project being among the first decisions taken by his government on December 20. Beyond the capital, the government is actively developing infrastructure for 49 courts and residential quarters for staff across the state, demonstrating a comprehensive approach to judicial enhancement.
Ceremony Highlights and Cultural Touch
The ceremony also featured addresses from the Supreme Court judges, with Justices Narasimha and Bhatti earning applause for delivering their speeches in Telugu, adding a local cultural dimension to the proceedings. Chief Justice Aparesh Kumar Singh also addressed the gathering, reinforcing the collaborative spirit of the event.
This landmark project not only symbolizes a significant leap in judicial infrastructure but also reflects a shared vision between the judiciary and executive to fortify the foundations of justice for generations to come.
