The Supreme Court of India has strongly defended the work ethic of its judges, rejecting recent criticisms about their working hours and vacations. The Vacation Bench, comprising Justices Dipankar Datta and Satish Chandra Sharma, expressed its dismay at the remarks made by economist Sanjeev Sanyal, who had suggested that Indian judges work for only a few hours and take lengthy vacations.
NEW DELHI: Today (22nd April): The Supreme Court of India strongly rebuked recent criticisms regarding the working hours and vacations of judges. The Vacation Bench, comprising Justices Dipankar Datta and Satish Chandra Sharma, expressed its dismay at the remarks made by economist Sanjeev Sanyal, who had suggested that Indian judges work for only a few hours and take lengthy vacations.
READ ALSO: Summer Vacation Benches List 2024, SC Announced on 2nd May
Justice Datta firmly stated,
“Very unfortunately, despite efforts being put in by judges it is said that judges work for very few hours. Those who say all this are part of governance; not one matter filed by Union (government) etc is filed within limitation. Every case has a condonation of delay application. All who castigate judiciary must take note of this. We burn the midnight oil even during the vacations.”
The Solicitor General, Tushar Mehta, who was present in the courtroom, agreed with the Bench’s remarks, asserting that the Supreme Court is the apex institution with the longest and most strenuous working hours.
READ ALSO: ‘Why The Urgency?’: SC on Listing of Transfer Petitions Before Vacation Bench
Senior Advocate and Supreme Court Bar Association President, Kapil Sibal, also weighed in, stating that the top court is amongst the most overworked.
This exchange came after the Bench refused to entertain a plea by jailed former Jharkhand Chief Minister Hemant Soren, challenging his arrest in a money-laundering case.
In a previous instance, another Bench of the Supreme Court had remarked that those who criticize court vacations do not realize that judges do not even get to enjoy weekends. The Court had opined that vacations offer much-needed time to draft lengthy judgments.
The Supreme Court’s robust defense of its judges’ work ethic emphasized the importance of recognizing the immense workload and dedication that the judiciary faces in India. As the country’s highest court, the Supreme Court plays a crucial role in upholding the rule of law and ensuring justice for all.
