Chief Justice of India Surya Kant has urged a reassessment of judicial processes, particularly concerning the increasing trend of litigants seeking urgent listings or early hearings in the Supreme Court for cases that are pending in High Courts. This statement was made during the platinum jubilee celebrations of the Kerala High Court held in Kochi on 1 November 2026.

During his address, CJI Kant noted that the Supreme Court has traditionally respected the autonomy of High Courts, including their ability to manage their own rosters. However, he expressed concern over the rising frequency of requests for urgent hearings, prompting questions about the responsiveness of judicial processes.

He posed several questions regarding the identification of urgent matters, the transparency and predictability of listing procedures, and the potential role of technology in prioritising cases where delays could result in irreversible harm. He also emphasised the necessity for timely access to justice, irrespective of a litigant’s ability to travel to New Delhi.

Significance of High Courts

CJI Kant highlighted that constitutional justice in India extends beyond New Delhi, relying on a network of 25 High Courts that play a crucial role in safeguarding rights and upholding the rule of law. He remarked that High Courts are closely attuned to local issues, understanding the grievances of regional communities and the implications of government actions.

Under Article 226 of the Constitution, High Courts possess broad authority to provide meaningful remedies across various legal disputes, including statutory, administrative, and contractual matters. He underscored the importance of their capacity to grant timely interim relief, stating that the distinction between justice and injustice often hinges on whether the court intervenes at critical moments.

Justice Kant also reflected on the seven-decade history of the Kerala High Court, noting its formation alongside the state of Kerala in 1956 and their intertwined development. He asserted that the court has played a pivotal role in the constitutional evolution of the state, translating constitutional principles into tangible realities that protect citizens’ rights.

Historical Context and Contributions

Justice Kant remarked that the Kerala High Court’s legacy extends beyond its establishment, inheriting a rich judicial tradition from earlier courts in the region. He traced the historical lineage from the early courts of Travancore and Cochin to the establishment of the Travancore High Court in 1887 and the Travancore-Cochin High Court in 1949, each contributing to the foundation of the present court.

He acknowledged the progressive spirit of the Kerala High Court, particularly in its constitutional jurisprudence. The court’s engagement with environmental protection and its invocation of fundamental rights to ensure life and personal liberty exemplify its commitment to making constitutional promises a reality in everyday life.

Justice Kant cited a notable instance from 1999 when the Kerala High Court prohibited smoking in public places, marking it as the first constitutional court globally to issue such an order. He described this as an example of constitutional foresight, where the court proactively guided society rather than waiting for it to adapt to legal standards.

In conclusion, CJI Kant asserted that Kerala has demonstrated that sustainable progress can be achieved through the synergy of education, social awareness, and public participation. He likened India’s constitutional courts to the interconnected waterways of Kerala, suggesting that while each court maintains its authority, they must collaborate towards a common goal of justice and constitutional integrity.

Long or Short, get news the way you like. No ads. No redirections. Download Newspin and Stay Alert, The CSR Journal Mobile app, for fast, crisp, clean updates!

App Store – https://apps.apple.com/in/app/newspin/id6746449540

Google Play Store – https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.inventifweb.newspin&pcampaignid=web_share