Chief Justice of India Surya Kant is set to inaugurate the permanent Bench of the High Court of Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh in Leh on Sunday. This development has been reported by the Press Trust of India, citing a senior official. The establishment of this Bench is expected to facilitate easier access to justice for residents, particularly those living in remote areas.

Significance for Local Residents

Ladakh Chief Secretary Ashish Kundra highlighted that the new Bench will significantly benefit individuals in far-flung regions who often encounter challenges in reaching higher courts. These challenges include difficult terrain, harsh weather conditions, and long distances. Kundra remarked that the establishment of the High Court Bench is a pivotal milestone for the region, especially for those who have historically struggled to access judicial institutions.

During a press conference held on Saturday, Kundra explained that the initiative is particularly important for those needing to file writ petitions or seek judicial relief. Previously, residents would have to travel to Srinagar or Jammu, but with the new Bench in Leh, this journey will no longer be necessary. He described the development as an extremely positive step towards making justice more accessible.

Kundra further noted that the initiative was realised within a span of two months and was not a demand raised by Ladakh representatives during discussions with the Centre. Instead, it is a unilateral initiative by the government of India, which acknowledges the unique challenges faced by the local population due to geographical constraints.

Attendees at the Inauguration

The inauguration will also be attended by Lieutenant Governor of Ladakh Vinai Kumar Saxena, along with four other judges from the Supreme Court. The Chief Justice of the High Court of Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh, along with other High Court judges and the Attorney General of India, will also be present at the event. This gathering underscores the significance of the occasion and the commitment to enhancing the judicial framework in the region.

Kundra pointed out that it has been over 40 years since a sitting Bench has been established in this manner for any other High Court in India. He referenced the Gauhati High Court’s Benches in Arunachal Pradesh as a comparable example, while also mentioning previous arrangements in Gwalior.

Lieutenant Governor Saxena described the establishment of the permanent Bench as a “historic step” aimed at improving the accessibility of the justice delivery system in Ladakh. He expressed gratitude to President Droupadi Murmu, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, and Union Home Minister Amit Shah for their roles in strengthening the judicial framework within the Union Territory.

Regulatory Framework for the Bench

The regulatory framework that allows for the establishment of the permanent Bench came into effect on September 5. This regulation was promulgated by President Murmu on August 27, with the implementation date subsequently announced by the Administrator in the Official Gazette. The decision to set September 5 as the effective date was made by the Lieutenant Governor.

The establishment of the permanent Bench is aimed at reducing the need for Ladakh residents to travel to Srinagar or Jammu for court proceedings, particularly for writ petitions. This initiative is expected to significantly ease the burden on local residents, making the judicial process more efficient and accessible.

Overall, the creation of the High Court Bench in Leh represents a significant advancement in the judicial landscape of Ladakh, aiming to bring justice closer to the people and address the unique challenges faced by the region’s inhabitants.

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