CJI Surya Kant said the Bombay High Court is more than a structure, reflecting sharp yet disciplined advocacy and dignity. He noted it fosters a culture where disagreement stays respectful and institutional dignity endures even during serious contest.
MUMBAI: The Bombay High Court represents more than just a structure or a schedule; it embodies a culture characterized by sharp yet disciplined advocacy and respectful disagreement, Chief Justice of India (CJI) Surya Kant stated in Mumbai on Saturday.
Speaking at a felicitation event organized by the Bombay High Court, the CJI remarked,
“For anyone who has spent time within its precincts, the Mumbai High Court is more than a building or a roster. It is a culture where advocacy is sharp but disciplined, where disagreement does not descend into disrespect and where the dignity of an institution is preserved even in moments of contest or desperation.”
He referred to the High Court as a grand tradition grounded in intellectual rigor, professional civility, and institutional independence, setting a standard for courts throughout the country.
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He noted,
“With over 160 years of history, the High Court has nurtured some of the most distinguished judges and formidable advocates, making significant contributions to constitutional jurisprudence“
In his speech, the CJI emphasized that the administration of justice is a collective effort, not solely the responsibility of judges, and shared insights from his two-decade tenure at the Bar.
Warning that no procedural reform can effectively replace a weakened collaboration between the Bench and the Bar, he advised,
“Courts function well when judges decide with clarity and advocates assist with preparation, candor, and restraint. Where this partnership is strong, justice gains credibility,”
Reiterating his advocacy for alternative dispute resolution, he described mediation, conciliation, and arbitration as the “instruments of mature justice” that help preserve relationships and reduce costs and delays.
The CJI highlighted that the success of these methods relies on an active Bench and a professional Bar, while cautioning that speed should never compromise fairness, and reforms must be grounded in constitutional values rather than merely administrative convenience.
Amid all changes, he stressed that the principle of trust must remain steadfast.
The CJI stated,
“Trust is built daily in how hearings are conducted, how lawyers are treated, how delays are explained and how power is exercised,”
He expressed gratitude to the State government for its generous budget allocations directed toward enhancing judicial infrastructure in Maharashtra and its support for developing a new High Court building.
Regarding the permanent establishment of the Kolhapur circuit Bench, the CJI assured that he would review the matter and advocate for it with the relevant authorities, ensuring continued support from the Supreme Court for this initiative.