The Supreme Court expressed strong displeasure over the prolonged pendency of bail and anticipatory bail applications in several High Courts, calling it a serious threat to personal liberty. The Court warned that it may issue mandatory guidelines if High Court Chief Justices fail to ensure timely hearings in bail matters.
The Supreme Court has raised serious concern over the rising backlog of gangster and terror-linked cases in Delhi, urging urgent reforms and special courts for speedy trials. The Bench stressed that trials must finish within six months and said “the question of granting bail” should not arise if proceedings move on time.
As the Supreme Court of India celebrates its 75th anniversary on January 28, 2025, addressing the growing case backlog calls for structural reforms beyond increasing bench strength. In 2024, Indian courts achieved a milestone by disposing of more cases than were pending, with district courts resolving over 13.4 million cases. High courts and the Supreme Court also made strides, aided by technological advancements like e-filing, virtual hearings, and ADR methods. Initiatives like the eCourts scheme have further streamlined judicial processes, fostering efficiency and accessibility in the legal system.