CJI Surya Kant announced that the Supreme Court will remain accessible to litigants even at midnight, allowing individuals to seek legal redress at any hour. He said those facing crises or arrest threats can approach courts to protect rights.
The Chief Justice of India, CJI Suryakant, announced that the Supreme Court will now remain accessible to litigants even at midnight.
In emergencies, individuals can seek legal redress in the Supreme Court at any hour.
CJI Surya Kant emphasized that if someone is facing a legal crisis or is at risk of arrest by investigative agencies during late hours, they will have the option to approach the constitutional courts for protection of their fundamental rights and liberties.
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As reported by media, CJI Surya Kant remarked,
“My endeavour has been and will continue to be to make the Supreme Court and High Courts people’s courts, which can be approached at any time, even after working hours, in case of a legal emergency.”
He highlighted his commitment to establishing more Constitution Benches to address pending petitions on pivotal constitutional matters, such as the challenges to the validity of the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls, which began in Bihar and is now being examined in numerous states.
In addition, the CJI has introduced a new system aimed at ensuring swift justice. A Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) has been issued to enhance the functioning of the Supreme Court and accelerate the justice delivery process.
The SOP outlines additional time restrictions for lawyers to submit arguments and written submissions when appearing before the court.
On Monday, CJI Suryakant, along with other Supreme Court judges, issued a circular detailing the SOPs regarding deadlines for presenting oral arguments in all cases.
Effective immediately, the SOP requires senior advocates, arguing counsel, and advocates on record to submit deadlines for oral arguments in post-notice and regular hearing cases at least one day prior to the hearing date.
This information must be submitted to the court via the online attendance slip submission portal provided to the Advocates on Record (AOR).
Furthermore, the circular stipulates that lawyers, including senior advocates, must file a brief note or written submission, limited to five pages, through their AORs or designated nodal counsel at least three days before the hearing date, ensuring a copy is shared with the opposing party.
The circular, which was signed by four registrars of the apex court, stated,
“All lawyers shall strictly adhere to the prescribed time-limit and complete their oral arguments,”
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