CJI Surya Kant Calls for Faster Judicial Response
Chief Justice of India Surya Kant has urged the judiciary to examine ways to improve its responsiveness, particularly in cases requiring urgent intervention. Speaking at the platinum jubilee celebrations of the Kerala High Court in Kochi on Sunday, November 1, 2026, the Chief Justice stressed that timely judicial action was essential to protecting citizens’ constitutional rights and ensuring meaningful access to justice.
CJI Calls for Transparent and Faster Case Listings
Justice Surya Kant expressed concern over the growing tendency of litigants to approach the Supreme Court seeking urgent hearings in cases already pending before High Courts.
He suggested that the judiciary should examine whether urgent matters could be identified more effectively and whether case-listing procedures could become more transparent and predictable.
The Chief Justice also highlighted the potential of technology to help courts prioritise cases where delays could cause irreversible harm.
He described these concerns as matters of collective institutional responsibility rather than criticism of individual courts.
High Courts Play Crucial Role in Protecting Rights
Justice Kant emphasised that constitutional justice was not confined to New Delhi but depended on India’s network of 25 High Courts.
He highlighted Article 226 of the Constitution, which empowers High Courts to protect fundamental rights and provide remedies for other legal violations.
Unlike Article 32, which provides access to the Supreme Court for enforcing fundamental rights, Article 226 gives High Courts broader jurisdiction across legal and administrative disputes.
He also underlined the importance of timely interim relief in preventing injustice.
Kerala High Court Marks 70 Years of Service
Addressing the Kerala High Court’s platinum jubilee celebrations, the Chief Justice recognised its contributions to constitutional jurisprudence and the protection of individual rights.
He observed that High Courts were particularly well positioned to understand citizens’ everyday challenges because of their proximity to local communities.
Justice Kant stressed that access to timely justice should not depend on a litigant’s ability to travel to the national capital.
His remarks highlighted the need for institutional improvements that make India’s judicial system more accessible, efficient and responsive.
