Essay on Need of Judicial Reforms in India For All Competitive Exams
Introduction
The judiciary is one of the most essential elements of a democracy. The judiciary safeguards citizens' rights and upholds justice. However, the Indian judicial system suffers from several problems, such as delayed cases, lack of judges, and issues in its independence. Judicial reforms are needed to make the system faster, fairer, and more efficient. A strong judiciary will help in building a better democracy.
Problems in the Indian Judiciary
1.Delayed Justice: There are more than 4.4 crore cases pending in Indian courts (National Judicial Data Grid, 2024). Many cases take as long as 20-30 years to come up for hearing. Justice delayed is justice denied.
2.Shortage of Judges: India has 21 judges per million people compared to 107 judges per million in the USA. This burden makes it worse.
3.Expensive Legal Process: Legal help remains a luxury to many, mostly the poor.
4.Outdated Laws: Some laws were made during British rule and are not useful today. They need to be updated.
5.Corruption: Some cases of bribery in lower courts reduce people’s trust in the system.
6.Interference in Judicial Independence: Sometimes, political pressure affects the appointment of judges and court decisions.
7.Lack of Technology: Many courts still use paper files instead of digital systems, causing delays and mismanagement.
8.Weak Lower Courts: District and lower courts handle most cases, but they lack good infrastructure and judges.
9.Undertrial Prisoners: Many people are in jail for years without being proven guilty because their cases are pending.
Steps Taken For Judicial Reforms in India
1.Fast Track Courts: Around 1,000 fast track courts have been established to reduce the pendency of urgent matters.
2.E- Courts: Virtual hearings and even online filing cases are now also available in most of the courts and the supreme court.
3.Increase Number of Judges: More judges are appointed to deal with the backlog of cases.
4.Simplifying Laws: Some old laws have been removed or updated to make justice easier.
5.Provide Legal Aid : Free legal aid is given to poor people by National Legal Services Authority (NALSA).
Solution/Judicial Reforms-Steps Needed
1.More Fast-Track Courts: These special courts should be increased to deal with cases like rape and corruption.
2.Better Use of Technology: Courts need to be all-digital systems.
3.Judicial Independence: Selection of judges must be devoid of political interference.
4.Increasing Judges: Ratio of judges in proportion to population should be more than 50 judges per million people.
5.Law Consciousness: Campaigns can educate people of their legal rights.
Conclusion
Reforms of Judiciary are vital for a great and just democracy. A rapid, transparent and independent judiciary shall bring justice before everyone.
Frequently Asked Questions(FAQs) on Need of Judicial Reforms in India Essay Writing
1. Why are judicial reforms needed in India?
India's judiciary has a huge backlog of cases. Many people wait for years to get justice. There are not enough judges, and court procedures are slow. Also, the appointment of judges is not very transparent. Reforms can make justice faster and fairer
2. What are the biggest problems in the Indian judiciary?
The biggest problems include delays in court cases, a shortage of judges, outdated laws, corruption, and lack of technology in courts. Many people also cannot afford expensive legal fees, making justice difficult for the poor
3. What reforms have been made to improve the judiciary?
India has introduced Fast Track Courts, Lok Adalats (people's courts), and Virtual Courts to speed up justice. The National Judicial Data Grid helps track cases online. New laws, like the Commercial Courts Act, also help resolve cases faster
4. How can technology help in judicial reforms?
Technology can make courts faster by allowing online case filings, virtual hearings, and better case tracking. The National Judicial Data Grid helps people check their case status online. e-Sewa Kendras assist those who are not tech-savvy
5. What are the proposed changes to the appointment of judges?
The current system, called the Collegium System, is criticized for being secretive. Some experts suggest a National Judicial Commission to make the appointment process fairer and more transparent