The Delhi High Court has expressed grave concerns over the acute shortage of space and funds for district courts in the national capital, highlighting the challenges faced in accommodating judicial officers and conducting court proceedings efficiently. The bench, led by Acting Chief Justice Manmohan and Justice Mini Pushkarna, pointed out the pressing need for additional resources to address these issues.
Acting Chief Justice Manmohan emphasized the severity of the situation, stating,
“By next year, 100 magistrates will be ready and we have no space to accommodate them. We do not have any funds or space to get new courtrooms. There is not an inch of space in any district court. Delhi government is not providing any money or space. We are trying very hard, they [Delhi government] are not releasing funds.”
The court’s concerns extend to the lack of facilities for local commissioners who record evidence in trial courts. The Acting Chief Justice remarked,
“Projects are stuck, there is no money from the state. They are saying we have no money. No proposal is getting sanctioned. Nothing is in the pipeline. We are trying very hard…There is no space in Patiala House Court, there is no space in Rouse Avenue. It is a very serious situation. If they will give us the funds, we will build a building.”
This situation presents a significant challenge to the judicial system in Delhi, where the demand for courtroom space is rapidly outpacing the available infrastructure. The High Court’s call for action underscores the urgent need for the Delhi government to allocate sufficient funds and space to ensure the smooth functioning of the courts and uphold the administration of justice.
The Delhi High Court’s plea to the city government to address these issues is a stark reminder of the growing pressures on India’s judicial infrastructure, particularly in densely populated urban areas like Delhi. The court’s emphasis on the need for immediate action reflects the critical role of adequate facilities in maintaining the efficacy and integrity of the judicial process.
