Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah has written to the Chief Justice of the Karnataka High Court, emphasizing the need for a Circuit Bench in Mangaluru. The letter highlights the long-standing demand from the coastal region for improved access to judicial services.
Chief Justice to Visit Mangaluru
The Chief Justice of the High Court is likely to visit Mangaluru either by the end of this month or in the first week of June. The purpose of the visit is to inspect the infrastructure identified for the proposed Circuit Bench. This development comes after persistent appeals from local bar associations and political leaders.
Background and Significance
The demand for a Circuit Bench in Mangaluru has been a recurring issue, aimed at reducing the burden on litigants from the coastal districts who currently have to travel to Bengaluru for High Court proceedings. A Circuit Bench would provide quicker and more affordable justice to the people of Dakshina Kannada, Udupi, and nearby regions.
In his letter, Siddaramaiah detailed the logistical and legal advantages of establishing the bench, including reduced travel costs and time for lawyers and litigants. He also noted that the state government is ready to provide necessary support, including land and funding for the infrastructure.
The Chief Justice's inspection is seen as a crucial step toward finalizing the proposal. If approved, the Mangaluru Circuit Bench would be the second such bench in Karnataka, following the one in Dharwad.
Local legal experts have welcomed the move, stating that it will significantly ease the judicial process for thousands of cases originating from the coastal belt. The Bar Association of Mangaluru has expressed optimism and pledged full cooperation for the successful establishment of the bench.
The state government's proactive approach, led by Siddaramaiah, underscores its commitment to decentralizing judicial services and ensuring equitable access to justice across Karnataka.
