Day 24 Arguments

Judicial Vacancies in the Lower Courts

March 6th 2020

The Supreme Court is monitoring steps taken by High Courts and State Governments to fill vacant judicial posts in the District and Subordinate Courts. Yesterday, the High Court of West Bengal submitted that the State Government had failed to notify recommended appointments. The counsels for the State explained that it had certain concerns about five of the judges that the High Court had recommended. Accordingly, the Supreme Court directed the State to file an affidavit, explaining its concerns.

Today in a brief hearing, the Bench comprising Chief Justice Sharad Bobde, Justice B.R. Gavai and Justice Surya Kant directed the State Law Minister to submit its objections to the Chief Justice of the High Court. It added that the Minister could suggest changes to the recommendations.

In the meantime, the State is to notify all other recommended names.

(Court reporting by Abhishek Sankritik)