In a significant move aimed at streamlining the career progression of judicial officers, the Supreme Court of India has issued a directive to High Court judges across the country to ensure the prompt recording of Annual Confidential Reports (ACRs). The directive, issued on Tuesday, January 21, stresses the importance of timely evaluations to prevent delays in promotions for judicial officers.
During a hearing presided over by a bench consisting of Justice BR Gavai, Justice AG Masih, and Justice K Vinod Chandran, the Supreme Court addressed concerns raised in the All India Judges Association case. The court observed that the delay in recording ACRs has become a significant issue that impedes the career advancement of judicial officers.
Senior Advocate K Paremeshwar, serving as Amicus Curiae, highlighted that in some High Courts, ACR entries are not being timely updated by the concerned judges. Furthermore, he pointed out that appellate forums, typically comprised of a committee of High Court judges, have been slow to address representations from judicial officers seeking expunction, modification, or verification of their ACRs.
In light of these issues, the Supreme Court has specifically requested the Chief Justices of all High Courts to impress upon their judges the urgency of recording ACRs without delay. Additionally, the appellate committees were urged to expedite their consideration of representations related to ACRs.
