In a groundbreaking development, the Supreme Court has wielded its influence, compelling the Delhi Government to swiftly initiate the construction of crucial judicial infrastructure and residences for judges. The directive, issued by a bench featuring Chief Justice DY Chandrachud, Justice JB Pardiwala, and Justice Manoj Misra, mandates the Delhi Government to promptly release tenders for the infrastructure project. Additionally, the Chief Secretary of GNCTD has been instructed to report on progress related to residential accommodations for judicial officers, staff recruitment at the district level, and the provision of temporary courtrooms.
In adherence to previous court instructions, a high-level meeting chaired by the Acting Chief Justice of the Delhi High Court was convened. Attended by key officials, including the Chief Secretary, GNCTD, Principal Secretary (Law), Principal Secretary (PWD), Secretary (Finance), and Justice Rajiv Shakdher, the meeting aimed to expedite clearances and approvals for the pressing infrastructural needs of the Delhi High Court.
The meeting disclosed that a residential project, comprising 70 units for judicial officers in Dwarka, began in October 2014 but faced a standstill due to structural defects. The court mandated a subsequent meeting to determine the fate of this stalled project. Furthermore, the Land and Development Office (L&DO) of the Union government was directed to ensure the expeditious handover of vacant areas for the Rouse Avenue Project to the Delhi High Court by December 31, 2023.
The Supreme Court’s orders in the matter include the filing of an affidavit by GNCTD, certifying the floating of tenders for judicial infrastructure by January 31, 2024. Additionally, a review meeting is scheduled for January 12, 2024, where the Chief Secretary, GNCTD, will update on progress regarding residential accommodations, staff recruitment, and temporary courtrooms. The proceedings are slated for February 5, 2024.
This landmark development, encapsulating the judicial push for swift action, signifies a crucial step forward in addressing the infrastructural challenges faced by the Delhi High Court.
