Today, On 21st January, The Supreme Court directed High Courts to ensure timely recording of Annual Confidential Reports (ACRs) for judicial officers. Delays in ACR evaluations often hinder the promotion process, affecting career progression. The apex court emphasized the importance of maintaining efficiency and transparency in the judiciary.
New Delhi: In a Important step towards enhancing the career advancement of judicial officers, the Supreme Court of India instructed High Court judges nationwide to ensure the timely recording of Annual Confidential Reports (ACRs).
This directive, issued on Tuesday, January 21, emphasizes the necessity of prompt evaluations to avoid delays in promotions for judicial officers.
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During a hearing led by a bench comprising Justices BR Gavai, AG Masih, and K Vinod Chandran, the Supreme Court addressed issues raised in the All India Judges Association case.
The court noted that delays in recording ACRs have become a critical problem that hinders the career progression of judicial officers.
Senior Advocate K Paremeshwar, acting as Amicus Curiae, pointed out that in some High Courts, ACR entries are not being updated in a timely manner by the relevant judges.
He also mentioned that appellate forums, usually made up of a committee of High Court judges, have been slow to respond to requests from judicial officers seeking expunction, modification, or verification of their ACRs.
In response to these concerns, the Supreme Court specifically urged the Chief Justices of all High Courts to stress the importance of timely ACR recording among their judges. Furthermore, it has called on the appellate committees to expedite the review of representations related to ACRs.
Annual Confidential Reports (ACRs) are performance appraisal documents used in government organizations, the judiciary, and other sectors to evaluate the work, conduct, and overall efficiency of employees or officers. For judicial officers, ACRs play a crucial role in promotions and transfers. Delays in recording these reports can slow down the process, affecting overall efficiency in the judiciary.
Case Title : All India Judicial Association v Union of India W.P.(C) No. 643/2015