CJI-Designate Surya Kant Proposes Radical Overhaul for High Courts
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Chief Justice of India (CJI)-designate Justice Surya Kant has urged high courts to transform into efficient, emergency-like services, capable of providing swift, decisive, and effective responses to citizens. Speaking at the silver jubilee celebrations of the Jharkhand High Court, Justice Kant emphasized the importance of protecting the innocent and addressing the root causes of disputes, rather than just resolving them. He recalled a cross-border custody dispute case, where two minor children were caught between competing jurisdictions and uncertain futures. This experience highlighted the need for institutions to embody empathy and resolve. Justice Kant advocated for the development of high courts similar to emergency wards in hospitals, which prioritize swift and coordinated responses. To achieve this, he suggested strengthening technological capacity, streamlining procedures, and building specialized expertise. The CJI-designate also stressed the importance of adaptability in judicial institutions, citing the need for technological integration and innovation to ensure that justice remains accessible to all, particularly those in remote areas or facing physical barriers. As India prepares for an era shaped by cybercrime, digital evidence, climate-related disputes, and increasing caseloads, Justice Kant warned that Indian courts must rethink traditional judicial models and adapt to these emerging challenges.
