Supreme Court Quashes Tribunal Reforms Act in Landmark Judgment
In a significant judicial ruling, the Supreme Court of India has struck down the Tribunal Reforms Act of 2021, dealing a major blow to the government's attempts to restructure the tribunal system. The apex court delivered this verdict while granting the Union government a four-month window to establish a National Tribunals Commission, as previously mandated in earlier court decisions.
Court's Directive on National Tribunals Commission
The bench, while declaring the Tribunal Reforms Act unconstitutional, emphasized the urgent need for creating the National Tribunals Commission. The court specifically allowed the Union government a period of four months to set up this independent body that will oversee the functioning of various tribunals across the country.
This directive aligns with the judiciary's consistent position in previous judgments where the establishment of such a commission was deemed necessary for maintaining the independence and efficiency of tribunals. The proposed commission is expected to bring much-needed reforms in the appointment and functioning of tribunal members while ensuring their autonomy from executive influence.
Background and Implications
The Tribunal Reforms Act, 2021 had been a subject of legal controversy since its enactment. Legal experts had raised concerns about several provisions that allegedly undermined the independence of the tribunal system. The Supreme Court's decision to strike down the legislation reinforces the constitutional principles of separation of powers and judicial independence.
The judgment, delivered on November 19, 2025, marks another chapter in the ongoing dialogue between the judiciary and the executive regarding the proper framework for tribunal administration. The four-month deadline set by the court provides the government with a reasonable timeframe to comply with the judicial mandate while ensuring that tribunal operations continue without disruption.
This development is particularly significant for numerous pending cases across various specialized tribunals that handle disputes related to administrative law, taxation, environmental matters, and other specialized domains. The establishment of the National Tribunals Commission is expected to streamline the appointment process and enhance the overall effectiveness of the tribunal system in India.
