Could Not Pay Requisite Attention To Issues Of Listing Of Matters, Sorry For That : CJI NV Ramana

The Chief Justice of India N.V. Ramana, while addressing the court in the ceremonial bench held on his last working, stated that during the last 16 months, in his tenure as the CJI, full fledged hearing was possible on only 50 days. The CJI also apologised for not giving attention to the issue of listing and posting of matters. Earlier this month, when Senior Advocate Dushyant Dave had raised an issue with the working of the Supreme Court Registry and the listing of matters, before CJI Ramana, he had held back from making any remarks, and had stated that he would speak about it in his farewell speech. 

CJI Ramana commenced his address by expressing his gratitude to everyone who helped him reach the post of the Chief Justice of India and allowing him to be a part of the institution for 22 long years. He stated that he was demitting his office with utmost content. 

While referring to few issues concerning the bar and bench, CJI Ramana stated that–

"Indian judiciary has gone with tides and waves of democracy. It cannot be defined or judged by one single order or judgement. At all times, the majesty of this great institution shall be protected and defended by both bench and bar. Unless the credibility of this institution is protected by the officers of this court, we cannot command respect from the people and the society. Because of your efforts and cooperation, this country is progressing. I have to admit that the pendency issues has been challenged before us. I must admit that the issues of listing and posting of matters is one of the areas on which I could not pay requisite attention. I am sorry for that. We are busy in firefighting on a day to day basis.On day to day basis, we worked. All sects are equal contributors to the problem."

On reformation of the system, the CJI said–

"We need to deploy new technology and Artificial Intelligence to find lasting solutions. Even though we tried developing some models, because of the compatibility and security issues we could not make much progress. Due to COVID emergency, our priority was running of the courts. Unlike commercial establishments, we cannot secure tools from the market. Needs of judiciary are different from those of the rest...Then there is an inherent resistance to all things new...We have to evolve with changing times."

He also requested seniors to guide their juniors who entered the bar, to the right path. He said that–

"I am not the last or the first one to contribute to the development of the institution. Several great people have contributed immensely to advance the cause of justice. Unfortunately, during the last 16 months, in my tenure as CJI, full fledged hearing was possible on only 50 days. People may come and go, but the institution remains forever. Each one of us have to make our own contributions, I have done my bit to the best of my ability. The bar may have many long standing issues, I have tried to understand to the extent possible."

While concluding his address, he thanked all members of bar and said that he will miss them.

Also Read : 

"You Have Been A Citizens' Judge": Senior Advocate Dushyant Dave Breaks Down During CJI NV Ramana's Farewell

Even In Turbulent Times, You Called Govt To Answer : Kapil Sibal Bids Farewell To CJI NV Ramana