In a significant departure from its usual practice, Chief Justice of India (CJI) DY Chandrachud announced on Tuesday that the vacation benches of the Supreme Court will be hearing fresh cases during the summer break. CJI Chandrachud further revealed that 300 fresh cases are expected to be listed in the first week of the vacation period.
Traditionally, the vacation benches of the Supreme Court have primarily focused on urgent matters that require immediate attention. However, this new development marks a notable shift, allowing the court to address a broader range of cases during the vacation period.
During an open court session, a Bench comprising CJI DY Chandrachud and Justice PS Narasimha acknowledged this change in approach. They confirmed that the vacation judges have agreed to consider fresh matters and have already scheduled 300 such cases for the initial week of the summer vacation.
Moreover, the court also emphasized the adoption of hybrid hearings, enabling lawyers to argue their cases from more convenient locations if desired. This move aims to facilitate greater accessibility and flexibility in court proceedings.
While highlighting the relaxed dress code, Justice Narasimha humorously mentioned that the only requirement for the attorneys presenting their cases is to be well dressed.
The decision to allow fresh cases during the vacation period demonstrates the Supreme Court’s commitment to ensuring access to justice and addressing a wider range of legal issues. By expanding the scope of cases heard during this period, the court aims to alleviate the backlog of pending matters and provide timely resolutions to litigants.
Legal experts have welcomed this progressive step, as it allows for a more balanced and efficient distribution of workload throughout the year. By utilizing the vacation period effectively, the Supreme Court seeks to streamline the judicial process and enhance the overall efficiency of the Indian legal system.
This move by the Supreme Court signifies a recognition of the evolving nature of litigation and the need for timely resolution of disputes. It showcases the judiciary’s willingness to adapt to changing circumstances while upholding the principles of justice and fairness.
As the first week of the summer vacation approaches, litigants and lawyers across the country will eagerly await the outcome of these fresh cases listed before the vacation benches. The Supreme Court’s decision to hear these matters during the vacation period demonstrates its commitment to ensuring justice and providing a forum for the resolution of legal disputes.
It remains to be seen how this departure from tradition will impact the functioning of the Supreme Court and the overall legal landscape of India. Nonetheless, it is a significant step towards fostering a more accessible and efficient judicial system that caters to the evolving needs of the society.
