CURRENT AFFAIRS FOR UPSC IAS

The Indian government has reportedly given its nod to the recommendation of a parliamentary committee advocating the establishment of regional benches for the Supreme Court. 

• Presenting its action-taken report on "Judicial Processes and Their Reforms," the Standing Committee on Law and Personnel in the Lok Sabha revealed that the government has acknowledged its suggestion.
• Emphasising the significance of 'access to justice' as a fundamental right, the committee underscored the long-standing demand for regional benches to ensure justice reaches the doorsteps of citizens.

Constitutional Provision (regarding Seat of the Supreme Court)

• As per Article 130, the Supreme Court is mandated to sit in Delhi or other locations designated by the Chief Justice of India with the President's approval.

Problems With Regard to the Centralisation

The centralisation of the Supreme Court has given rise to several issues.

• Long-way for outsiders: The Supreme Court of India sits in Delhi, which makes it a daunting task for people outside of Delhi to seek justice.
• Expensive: It has become an expensive affair to knock on the door of the apex court.
• Ignored Underprivileged: It makes it difficult for extensively underprivileged people who live in the remotest areas of the country to even think of reaching to Supreme Court.
• Burden: Further, it has also given birth to the long line of pending cases, thus, leading to a heavy burden on the apex court.