Chief Justice of India (CJI) Surya Kant on Thursday issued a stern warning to the Supreme Court Registry, observing that certain officials are allegedly functioning according to their “whims” and circumventing established judicial protocols. Expressing serious displeasure over administrative lapses, the CJI announced his intention to order a “deep probe” into the registry’s operations to ensure accountability and transparency.
The remarks were made after the CJI came across a specific instance of procedural bypass that he described as “stunning.”
The Incident of Concern
Highlighting the gravity of the situation, CJI Kant pointed to a specific case where a plea, which had already been declined by a three-judge bench, was subsequently listed before a different bench.
“I was stunned to come across an instance wherein a plea, which had been declined by a three-judge bench, was later listed before another bench,” the CJI remarked, indicating a clear breach of the court’s internal listing procedures.
‘Judges in Transit, Officials Permanent’
The CJI took particular exception to the conduct of long-serving officials within the registry. He observed that some individuals, having been stationed in the registry for decades, appear to believe they are beyond the scope of judicial oversight or administrative reforms.
“I will order a deep probe. There are officials in the Registry who have been here since the last 20-30 years. They think we (judges) are all here in transit and they are permanent. Therefore, things must happen the way they want,” the CJI observed.
Commitment to Reform
The CJI emphasized that these actions continue to persist despite the introduction of fresh reforms aimed at streamlining the registry’s functioning. He stated that failing to address these systemic issues would be a dereliction of his professional responsibilities.
“If I don’t correct this before I demit office, I would be failing in my duties,” CJI Kant added, vowing to implement corrective measures before the conclusion of his tenure.
The Supreme Court has recently been making concerted efforts to modernize its administrative wing and ensure that the registry adheres strictly to judicial protocols, aiming to eliminate any “perceived overreach” by administrative staff.
