Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis informed the Legislative Council on Tuesday that only 58 of the 138 sanctioned fast-track courts in the state are currently functional. He attributed the shortfall to delays in the appointment of judges, which falls under the purview of the judiciary.
Current Status of Fast-Track Courts
Fadnavis stated that the state government had sanctioned 138 fast-track courts to expedite the disposal of cases, particularly those involving heinous crimes and cases pending for long periods. However, only 58 courts are operational, with the remaining 80 awaiting judicial appointments. The chief minister emphasized that the appointment of judges is entirely the authority of the judiciary and the state government cannot intervene in the process.
Government's Role and Efforts
The chief minister highlighted that the state government has provided the necessary infrastructure, including courtrooms, staff, and funds, for the fast-track courts. He urged the judiciary to expedite the appointment process to ensure the remaining courts become functional. Fadnavis also noted that the government is in constant communication with the high court and the law ministry to address the issue.
Impact on Case Disposal
The lack of functional fast-track courts has led to a backlog of cases. According to data presented by the government, the 58 operational courts have disposed of over 12,000 cases since their inception. However, the delay in appointing judges for the remaining courts has slowed the overall disposal rate. Fadnavis expressed concern over the pendency of cases, especially those related to crimes against women and children, which are often prioritized for fast-track hearings.
Judicial Independence and Coordination
Fadnavis reiterated the state government's commitment to the independence of the judiciary while stressing the need for better coordination between the executive and the judiciary to improve the justice delivery system. He said, "We have provided all resources for these courts. The appointment of judges is a judicial function, and we respect that. But we urge the judiciary to expedite the process so that the remaining courts can start functioning at the earliest."
Way Forward
The chief minister assured the Legislative Council that the government would continue to monitor the situation and take all necessary steps to support the judiciary. He also mentioned that the state has proposed the establishment of additional fast-track courts in districts with high case pendency. The government is awaiting approval from the high court and the law ministry to proceed with these proposals.
