Varaprasad Sastry
Monday, 1 December 2025
The Indian judiciary is at a crossroads, facing an urgent need for comprehensive reform. With an overwhelming backlog of cases and a sluggish litigation process, the call for change has never been more pressing. As reported in various analyses, including insights from legal experts and organizations like DAKSH, the current state of the judiciary not only affects the speed of justice but also undermines public trust in the legal system.
According to Gokul Krishnan R., a Project Associate at DAKSH, the litigation process in India is grueling, often taking years to resolve even simple cases. This situation is exacerbated by a lack of resources, insufficient judicial manpower, and outdated technology. The increasing number of pending cases—estimated to be over 4.5 crore—illustrates a system stretched beyond capacity. Such delays not only hinder justice but also disproportionately affect marginalized communities who often lack the resources to navigate this complex system.
However, the call for reform is not merely about addressing backlogs. It encompasses a holistic approach to judicial efficiency and accessibility. Implementing technology in court processes, as suggested by various stakeholders, could streamline case management and improve communication between courts and litigants. For instance, the integration of Artificial Intelligence for case allocation and scheduling could significantly reduce delays.
Moreover, a foundational aspect of judicial reform lies in legal education. As noted in critiques of the current system, the quality of legal education often falls short of preparing future lawyers for the complexities of practice. Institutions must prioritize experiential learning and practical training to equip students with the necessary skills to advocate effectively. This shift could enhance the quality of representation in courts, ultimately benefiting the justice system.
In conclusion, judicial reform in India is not merely an option—it is a necessity. The interplay of technology, legal education, and administrative efficiency is crucial for creating a responsive and effective judiciary. Policymakers must take a proactive approach, considering both immediate and long-term reforms that address the root causes of judicial inefficiency. The future of justice in India depends on it.
What You Need to Know
Indian judiciary faces urgent reform needs due to a backlog of over 4.5 crore pending cases and slow litigation processes.
Litigants, especially marginalized communities, are significantly affected by delays, impacting their access to justice and public trust in the system.
Establishes critical precedent for integrating technology in judicial processes to enhance efficiency and accessibility in legal proceedings.
Advocate for immediate implementation of technology in courts and push for reforms in legal education to improve future legal practice.
India's judicial system requires urgent reform to ensure access to justice and efficiency in litigation processes.
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