Supreme Court Mandates Swift Justice: New Deadlines for High Courts
The Supreme Court has invoked its constitutional powers to direct all High Courts to deliver judgments swiftly, setting a three-month deadline for reserved judgments and same-day or next-day orders for bail cases. This move aims to ensure timely justice, especially at primary judicial institutions like High Courts.
- Country:
- India
In a significant ruling aimed at expediting judicial processes, the Supreme Court invoked its authority under Article 142 of the Constitution, mandating all High Courts to address delays in judgment pronouncements. The bench, led by Chief Justice of India (CJI) Surya Kant, instructed High Courts to issue reserved judgments within three months.
The directive also emphasized that bail orders should be delivered on the same day, or the next day if reserved. Moreover, once bail is granted, these orders must be immediately communicated to trial courts for prompt release of undertrial prisoners, pending completion of formalities.
In addition, the Court ordered that all judgments, once delivered, must be uploaded to High Court websites within 24 hours. Highlighting the role of High Courts as vital centers for justice, the Supreme Court clarified these measures are designed to streamline judicial processes without criticizing individual judges or institutions. This intervention stems from concerns over lags in judgment pronouncement and posting, notably affecting the Jharkhand High Court.
(With inputs from agencies.)
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