The CJI pointed out that from September to October, a total of 3,688 adjournments were sought by lawyers and this, he said, defeats the very purpose of expediting cases.
Chief Justice of India (CJI) DY Chandrachud expressed his concern on Friday about the increasing number of adjournment requests made by lawyers in the Supreme Court. He emphasized that the highest court should not be reduced to a mere “tareekh pe tareekh” court where cases are repeatedly postponed.
CJI Chandrachud pointed out that a total of 3,688 adjournments were requested by attorneys between September and October, which, in his view, goes against the very goal of expediting legal proceedings.
“While efforts are made to expedite certain cases, there are requests for adjournments. This does not align with the concept of a ‘tareek par tareek’ courtroom. It erodes the public’s trust and constitutes our ethical responsibility. This portrayal does not cast a favorable light on our court,” he continued.
The CJI initially commended the Supreme Court Bar Association (SCBA) and the Supreme Court Advocates-on-Record Association (SCAORA) for their efforts in reducing the time between case filing and scheduling for a hearing.
“I have noticed a reduction in the time between filing and listing. This would not have been possible without the involvement of SCBA and SCAORA,” noted the CJI.
However, he drew attention to the significant number of adjournment requests filed by lawyers.
“On November 3rd, we received 178 adjournment requests. Since October, we’ve been receiving 150 adjournment papers daily. Between September and October, a total of 3,688 adjournment requests were submitted. This undermines the very purpose of expediting cases,” he stated.
Additionally, he pointed out the paradox of lawyers, on one hand, seeking urgent listing of cases and, on the other hand, requesting adjournments when those cases are scheduled.
“Every day between September and November 1, we have discussed 58 matters. On one hand, urgent matters are being raised, and on the other, adjournments are being sought,” he remarked.
