The rapidly increasing backlog of over 5.4 crore cases in India’s courts reflects critical infrastructure shortages, says CJI Surya Kant, urging urgent reforms, modern facilities, and coordinated efforts to strengthen judicial efficiency and reduce pendency.
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NEW DELHI: Newly appointed Chief Justice of India (CJI) Surya Kant has expressed deep concern over the rapidly growing backlog of cases in Indian courts, calling it a reflection of major structural bottlenecks within the judicial system. Shortly after taking the oath, the CJI noted that more than 5.4 crore cases are currently pending across trial courts, high courts, and the Supreme Court.
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As of Tuesday’s official statistics:
- 4.8 crore cases are pending in trial courts
- 63.8 lakh cases are awaiting resolution in high courts
- Over 90,000 cases are pending before the Supreme Court
He stressed that a scientific and comprehensive strategy is essential to strengthen all levels of the judiciary and ensure faster delivery of justice.
According to CJI Kant, the biggest reason for pendency lies in severe infrastructure shortages, including limited courtrooms, procedural delays, and insufficient staffing. He emphasized the need for:
- Faster allocation of land and resources for new courts
- Better-equipped facilities and technology integration
- Speedy completion of ongoing judicial infrastructure projects
- Stronger focus on mediation and alternative dispute resolution (ADR)
He believes these measures will significantly reduce the burden on traditional court processes.
Addressing concerns about the Supreme Court’s perception of itself as “big brother” toward high courts, the CJI clarified that the relationship must remain harmonious and complementary, not competitive.
“The real strength of High Courts lies in their proximity to the people… This is where the Constitution truly lives in daily practice,”
he said.
He highlighted that the High Courts exercise broad jurisdiction under Article 225, often wider than the Supreme Court’s powers under Article 32, and that the SC routinely directs petitioners to first approach the High Courts.
While declining to comment in detail, the CJI acknowledged ongoing concerns regarding:
- Greater representation of women judges
- Regional diversity within the Supreme Court
- Selective implementation of collegium recommendations
He assured, “I am working on these issues,” signaling future reforms.
CJI Surya Kant reiterated that an efficient three-tier system, trial courts, high courts, and Supreme Court, is crucial for public trust and democratic governance.
“The effectiveness of our democracy depends on the robust functioning of all three levels of the judiciary.”
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