CNN Central News & Network–ITDC India Epress/ITDC News Bhopal: The judiciary, a cornerstone of India’s democracy and the guardian of its Constitution, faces mounting challenges in recent years. While it is revered for its independence and landmark judgments, issues such as a backlog of cases, lack of transparency, and slow judicial processes have raised concerns about its efficiency.
The Problem of Pendency
India’s judicial system is burdened with over 4.5 crore pending cases across various courts, as per the National Judicial Data Grid. This backlog severely impacts citizens who are left waiting for justice for years, often decades.
Lack of Transparency and Accountability
Judicial independence is the judiciary’s strength, but the absence of accountability is a growing concern. The collegium system for judicial appointments has often been criticized for its opacity, with calls for more transparent mechanisms.
The Need for Reforms
- Digitization: Implementing digital systems in court proceedings and documentation can expedite case management and improve accessibility.
- Expansion of Lok Adalats: Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) mechanisms should be promoted to resolve minor disputes efficiently.
- Reforming Judicial Appointments: Revising the collegium system and introducing a more transparent and merit-based process is essential.
- Fast-Track Courts: Establishing fast-track courts for serious crimes and critical cases can accelerate the delivery of justice.
Conclusion
Judicial reforms in India are crucial not only to restore public trust but also to strengthen the democratic fabric of the nation. Delayed justice is often equated with denied justice, making reforms an urgent need. Both the government and the judiciary must collaborate to address these issues and uphold the integrity of this vital institution.
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