High Court of J&K & Ladakh Launches Comprehensive Action Plan for Swift Case Disposal
SRINAGAR, SEPTEMBER 24: Justice Arun Palli, Chief Justice of the High Court of Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh, has unveiled a Comprehensive Action Plan aimed at strengthening the justice delivery system and ensuring timely resolution of cases. The initiative seeks to reduce case backlogs, improve judicial efficiency, and enhance public trust in the judiciary.
Addressing concerns over delayed justice and growing case pendency, the Chief Justice outlined a multi-pronged strategy to expedite adjudication, with special attention to long-pending cases and matters involving senior citizens, women, and vulnerable groups. Launching Phases IV and V of the initiative, he emphasized that “justice delayed is justice denied” and reaffirmed the court’s commitment to accessible and timely justice for all citizens of Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh.
Building on the success of Phases I to III, the upcoming phases aim to consolidate earlier gains and further improve judicial delivery:
Phase IV (July 2025 – December 2025) Objectives:
- Identification and prioritization of cases pending for over 10 years, and cases involving senior citizens, women, and vulnerable groups
- Expansion of Evening/Weekend Courts and Special Arrears Sessions
- Strengthening case management through digital dashboards and monthly performance reviews
- Enhanced coordination with the Bar and Prosecution Departments for early disposal
Phase V (January 2026 – June 2026) Objectives:
- Consolidation of progress from previous phases
- Pilot rollout of paperless courts in select districts
- Strengthening Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) mechanisms, including mediation and Lok Adalats for compoundable matters
- Targeted capacity-building programs for judicial officers and court staff
The Arrears Committee of the High Court will closely monitor the implementation of Phases IV and V, with monthly progress reports from all District and Sessions Judges. Success will be measured using quantifiable metrics such as case disposal rates, reduction in pendency, and adherence to timelines.
This structured, strategic approach reflects the High Court’s continued commitment to an efficient, transparent, and citizen-friendly justice system.
