Judges Needed: High Court Vacancy Crisis in India

The Supreme Court of India has highlighted a pressing issue: there are currently 7 lakh criminal appeals pending across various high courts in the country. This backlog is attributed to a significant shortage of judges, and the top court has called on the Central Government to expedite the appointment process.

Justices Abhay S Oka and Ujjal Bhuyan explained that the Allahabad High Court, the court with the highest number of pending appeals, operates with only 79 judges out of a sanctioned strength of 111. Similarly, the Bombay High Court is functioning with 66 judges, while it should have 94.

The Calcutta and Delhi High Courts are facing similar shortages, exacerbating the issue. The Supreme Court collegium's recent recommendations for high court judge appointments are still awaiting approval, leaving crucial posts vacant and appeals unresolved. The judicial system's efficiency hinges on prompt action from the central authorities.

(With inputs from agencies.)