Nearly 5 crore cases pending in Indian Courts and the number will go up further if no action was taken, Union Minister of Law and Justice Kiren Rijiju.
Speaking at the first convocation of Maharashtra National Law University (MNLU) in Aurangabad, the minister also expressed concern about unaffordability of legal professionals for the common people.
The quality of the Indian judiciary is well-known in the world. Two days ago, I was in London where I met people connected to the judiciary system . They all have similar thoughts and high regard for the Indian judiciary system. The judgments of the Supreme Court are referred to quite often in the United Kingdom,” the Minister said.
The Minister said, When I took over as law minister was slightly less than 4 crore. Today it is close to nearly 5 crore. It is a matter of concern for all of us.
“In United Kingdom, every judge delivers judgment in maximum of three to four cases in a day. But in Indian courts, every judge on an average presides over 40 to 50 cases every day. Now I realise that they sit extra time, people expect quality judgment. Judges are also human beings,” the Minister said.
Nearly 5 crore cases pending in Indian courts
Referring to comments about judges in the media, the minister said, “Sometimes, I see comments on social media and print media about judges. If you really see the amount of work a judge has to put in, it unimaginable and unthinkable for all other countries.” everyone has an opinion, without having proper knowledge and going into the depth of the issue. People jump to conclusions and pass personal judgments on judges,” he said
He also expressed concern about the fees charged by lawyers. Poor people find it difficult to afford good lawyers, and that should not be the reason for denial of justice to anyone, he said.
“I know many lawyers in Country who are unaffordable for the common man. Just because somebody has a better access to the system, his fees should not go up. The Playground should be open and equal for everybody, Rijiju Said.
A bill with certain changes should be passed in the coming session of Parliament and it will open up more opportunities for budding lawyers, the minister said.
