The Madras High Court stressed that election petitions must be decided within a reasonable time, warning that prolonged delays undermine electoral accountability and democratic principles. Criticising the six-year pendency of the Radhapuram election appeal, the Court described the situation as a “grave mockery of justice.”
A viral video showing 85-year-old Deep Rai alias Jisa Rai leaving a Bihar court with a walking stick after being sentenced in a 34-year-old criminal case nearly prompted the Supreme Court to initiate suo motu proceedings, reigniting debate over judicial delays and prolonged criminal trials.
The Supreme Court strongly criticised the Allahabad High Court for refusing bail to a man who has spent almost nine years in jail as an undertrial in a murder case, calling the High Court’s order “shocking and very disappointing.”
Bombay High Court stayed a 2017 defamation case until 2046, calling it an “ego fight between the parties at the fag end of their lives,” highlighting prolonged personal disputes clogging judicial timelines.
The Union government told the Delhi High Court that appointment of a regular NCLT President remains pending since December 2025. The Centre stated it awaits recommendation from the Chief Justice of India under Companies Act provisions.
Today, On 25th November, Supreme Court sharply questioned a lawyer over repeated adjournment requests, asking, “Who is accountable for the 90,000 pending cases in this court?” The Bench warned that constant delays only harm litigants and reflect a lack of preparation.
The Supreme Court directed the Bandra family court to conclude the long-pending divorce case of Jaidev and Poonam Shroff within three months. The bench warned that “if any party delays the proceedings then an adverse inference can be drawn.”
Delhi High Court has reserved its decision on Tasleem Ahmed’s bail plea in the 2020 riots conspiracy case. The Court stressed that facts, not just delays, determine bail under UAPA.
Advocate Shwetasree Majumdar has retracted her consent for a judgeship at the Delhi High Court due to the Central Government’s unexplained year-long delay in processing her appointment, despite recommendations from the Supreme Court Collegium. This situation raises concerns about transparency in judicial appointments amid her notable legal background and contributions.
Justice AS Oka emphasized the ongoing threats to judicial independence in India during the Justice H.R. Khanna Memorial Lecture. He criticized delays in judicial appointments as damaging and demoralizing, urging judges and lawyers to remain vigilant. Oka highlighted historical instances of judicial integrity and encouraged future legal professionals to prioritize constitutional values over recognition.
