Karnataka Home Minister G Parameshwara on Monday emphasized that the staggering backlog of lakhs of pending cases in courts across the state highlights the critical need for comprehensive judicial reforms. Speaking at an event in Tumakuru, he noted that the delay in justice delivery undermines public trust in the legal system.
Mounting Case Backlog
According to official data, over 3.5 crore cases are pending in various courts across India, with Karnataka contributing a significant share. Parameshwara pointed out that the situation is alarming, as litigants often wait years for their cases to be heard. He called for modernizing court procedures and increasing the number of judges to expedite the process.
Concerns Over Public Confidence
MLA K N Rajanna, who also spoke at the event, echoed the minister's sentiments, stating that there is a growing perception that the judiciary is losing public confidence. "As in other sectors, the judiciary must also address this issue urgently," Rajanna said. He attributed the backlog to inadequate infrastructure and procedural inefficiencies.
Call for Reforms
Parameshwara advocated for the adoption of technology in court proceedings, including e-filing and virtual hearings, to reduce delays. He also stressed the need for alternative dispute resolution mechanisms like mediation and arbitration. "Judicial reforms are not just about speed but also about ensuring fairness and accessibility," he added.
Government Initiatives
The Karnataka government has already taken steps to address the issue, including setting up fast-track courts for specific cases and increasing the number of judicial officers. However, Parameshwara acknowledged that more needs to be done and urged the judiciary and executive to work together to clear the backlog.
