The city of Shivamogga has intensified its efforts to establish a circuit bench of the Karnataka High Court. The move requires the consent of both the Chief Justice of the Karnataka High Court and the Chief Minister of Karnataka. Nrupathunga S K reported on June 14, 2026, that local leaders and stakeholders are rallying support for the bench, which would improve access to justice for residents in the Malnad region. Currently, litigants from Shivamogga and surrounding districts must travel to Bengaluru for High Court proceedings, incurring significant time and expense. The demand for a circuit bench has been a long-standing issue, with multiple representations made to the state government and the judiciary. Proponents argue that a circuit bench in Shivamogga would not only reduce the burden on the principal bench in Bengaluru but also expedite legal processes for cases originating from the region. The campaign has gained momentum in recent weeks, with local bar associations, political leaders, and civil society groups joining forces to press for the bench. They emphasize that the establishment of a circuit bench is a matter of regional equity and judicial efficiency. The state government is expected to consider the proposal in consultation with the High Court, though no timeline has been announced for a decision.
