On Its Diamond Jubilee, CJI Lauds Kerala HC For 2 Firsts, 14 SC Judges; Says Courts Exist For People, Not People For The Court

‘Courts exist for the people and not people for the court’ is the motto of serviceability of the institution of justice, said Chief Justice of India Dipak Misra as he spoke on the diamond jubilee celebration of the Kerala High Court on Saturday. He said the court should be proud of giving 14 judges to the Supreme Court and first woman judge.

"We should not forget that courts exist for the people and not people for the court and that should be the motto of serviceability of our institution," the CJI said, while lauding the Kerala High Court for the increase in number of cases before it which, the CJI said, was a reflection of people's faith in the institution.

He emphasised on the need for devising new methods, forging new tools and innovating new strategies for ensuring the constitutional promise of justice for all while sharing how in last two months, the pendency in apex court has come down by over 2,000 cases.

CJI Misra lauded Kerala HC for its glorious existence, two firsts and giving 14 judges to the Supreme Court.

"The High Court of Kerala should be proud of the fact that 14 illustrious judges made it to the Supreme Court from this institution.

"It is an eloquent testimony to the venerated sense of duty," he said.

The CJI added, "This court has reason to feel proud of two firsts -- for giving first woman judge to the country and first to the apex court too, Fathima Beevi."

CJI Misra said he had no hesitation in saying that "the High Court of Kerala had crossed several milestones due to incessant cooperation and cooperative endeavour of the bench and the bar".

"It has upheld the highest principles of judicial independence in an impeccable manner and the achievement has been possible because this temple of justice has been served by illustrious judges who have provided intellectual depth, vigour and vitality essential for any institution to rise in height," he said.

Arrears Committee working hard

CJI Misra concluded his address by reiterating the "constitutional obligation to deliver prompt and inexpensive justice to the citizens".

Justice Misra also said that "on certain occasions, grievance regarding delay is justified for delay in disposal of cases diminishes confidence of citizens in judicial process but added that the Arrears Committee of Supreme Court and high courts are totally focused and has started reducing pendency".

He appreciated how "in the last 2 months, dependency in Supreme Court has reduced by more than 2000 cases due to the hard work of brother judges and pendency has started reducing in the high court also".