CJI Surya Kant Flags Rising Litigation Costs, Calls for Judicial Reforms

Chief Justice of India Justice Surya Kant has voiced strong concern over the growing challenges faced by ordinary citizens in accessing justice.

Speaking at a symposium organized by the High Court Bar Association, Cuttack, he highlighted two pressing issues: prolonged delays in case disposal and escalating litigation costs.

Justice Surya Kant emphasized that delayed justice not only drains the financial resources of litigants but also erodes their dignity and weakens public trust in institutions. “Justice delayed weakens faith in institutions and imposes emotional and economic hardship on ordinary citizens,” he remarked.

Calling for systemic reforms, the CJI urged the judiciary and legal fraternity to evolve practical strategies that reduce litigation expenses and ensure timely case resolution. Affordable and accessible justice, he noted, is vital to strengthening democratic values.

The symposium, held at Shaheed Bhawan in Cuttack, witnessed participation from Chief Justice of Orissa High Court Justice Harish Tandon, Advocate General Pitambar Acharya, and State Bar Council Chairman Sitanshu Mohan Dwivedi, along with senior advocates and legal scholars. The gathering focused on solutions to make justice more inclusive and citizen‑friendly.

Justice Surya Kant also praised Odisha’s rich cultural legacy, describing the state as the cradle of classical architecture, underscoring its historical significance alongside the urgent need for judicial reforms.