'Why Only Hindi?We Hear Appeals From All States': Supreme Court Dismisses Plea Seeking Hearings In Hindi

The Supreme Court today (November 4) refused to entertain a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) seeking hearings in the Apex Court to be in Hindi while challenging the validity of Article 348(1) of the Constitution. 

Notably, Article 348(1) provides that all proceedings in the Supreme Court and all High Courts be done in English Language.  The bench comprising CJI DY Chandrachud, Justices JB Pardiwala and Manoj Misra was hearing the matter.

CJI DY Chandrachud asked the petitioner why only a specific relief for the Hindi language is sought in the PIL considering that matters to the Top Court are filed by parties belonging to all diverse states of the Country. 

"Why only Hindi? We have appeals and SLPs which come to this court from all states. Should we now be hearing parties in every language recognised by the Constitution? How does this work?" 

He further pointed out that the provision under challenge has been part of the original constitution.

"How can you challenge the validity of Article 348(1) of the Constitution? it's part of the original Constitution." 

The petitioner argued that the linguistic barrier in the Supreme Court led to the denial of access to Justice. 

The bench disinclined to entertain the matter any further, dismissed the same. 

"The writ petition is lacking merit and is accordingly dismissed."  

Case details : KISHAN CHAND JAIN Versus UNION OF INDIA AND ANR. W.P.(C) No. 701/2024

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