Rajasthan Government Commits to New High Court Building in Jaipur to Strengthen Judicial Infrastructure
Chief Minister Bhajan Lal Sharma announced on Saturday that the state government is firmly committed to strengthening judicial institutions and will proceed with plans to construct a new building for the Rajasthan High Court. Speaking as the chief guest at the 50th Foundation Day and Bench Day celebrations of the high court's Jaipur bench, Sharma emphasized that the existing infrastructure is no longer sufficient to meet the rising judicial demands of the state.
Judiciary as the Backbone of Democracy
In his address, Sharma highlighted the critical role of the judiciary, describing it as "the backbone of democracy." He stated that good governance fundamentally requires a strong and independent judicial system to function effectively. "With the steady increase in the number of cases and judicial responsibilities, a modern and well-planned high court building has become an urgent necessity," Sharma remarked, underscoring the pressing need for upgraded facilities.
Positive Approach to Institutional Development
The Chief Minister assured that the proposal for a new high court building would be pursued with a positive and sensitive approach, reflecting the state's unwavering commitment to institutional development. He noted that such large institutional decisions inevitably bring changes and called for cooperation from all stakeholders involved in the judicial process.
In remarks directed at the legal fraternity, Sharma specifically addressed lawyers who have built residences around the existing high court complex. He urged them to be prepared for possible shifts and related infrastructural adjustments as part of the redevelopment plans, emphasizing the broader benefits for the judicial system.
Current Infrastructure Falling Short
Earlier in the event, Acting Chief Justice Sanjeev Prakash Sharma echoed these concerns, stating that the current high court building is increasingly falling short of present and future requirements. He stressed that adequate courtrooms, chambers, and basic facilities for judges, lawyers, and litigants are essential for the efficient administration of justice. This alignment between the executive and judiciary highlights a shared recognition of the infrastructure challenges.
Government Support and Welfare Initiatives
Adding to the government's support for the legal community, Minister of State for Home Jawahar Singh Bedam announced that the government had sanctioned Rs 7.5 crore to the advocates' welfare fund. This move aims to bolster the welfare of lawyers and further demonstrates the state's dedication to enhancing the judicial ecosystem.
Swearing-In Ceremony of Bar Association
The celebrations also included a swearing-in ceremony for the newly elected executive committee of the Bar Association. Acting Chief Justice Sanjeev Prakash Sharma administered the oath to president Rajiv Sograwal, general secretary Deepesh Sharma, and other office bearers, marking a significant moment in the association's leadership transition.
Overall, the announcements at the 50th Foundation Day event signal a proactive step by the Rajasthan government to address judicial infrastructure gaps, with the new high court building poised to modernize facilities and support the growing demands of justice delivery in the state.