New CJ Sandhawalia signals pragmatic approach to tackle pendency of cases

Justice GS Sandhawalia’s appointment as Chief Justice of the Himachal Pradesh High Court and his commitment to ensuring speedy justice delivery reflects an acute awareness of systemic challenges that plague India’s judiciary, including case backlogs and delayed justice. By pledging longer working hours and emphasising collaboration with the Bar, Justice Sandhawalia signals a pragmatic approach to tackle pendency. His insistence on minimising adjournments underscores his intent to streamline judicial processes, which could serve as a model for other High Courts grappling with an identical issues.

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By highlighting that the state’s judiciary deals more with service and civil matters than criminal cases, the statement reflects his impression about a society with strong communal harmony and blessed with the law-abiding citizens.

Himachal’s reputation as a serene and orderly state aligns with its cultural and geographical identity, where community values and mutual respect prevail. The Chief Justice’s comment is both a commendation of the state’s social ethos and a reminder of the importance of maintaining such harmony in an era where societal tensions are increasingly common.

His background as a practising advocate adds a layer of empathy to his leadership. By assuring lawyers that their concerns will be addressed, Justice Sandhawalia exhibits an understanding of the practical hurdles faced by the legal fraternity. This bridge between the Bench and the Bar could foster a cooperative environment, essential for the efficient functioning of the judiciary.

Justice Sandhawalia’s remarks and priorities not only highlight his administrative foresight but also reflect a broader vision of justice as a service-oriented institution. His tenure could mark a transformative phase for the Himachal Pradesh High Court, balancing tradition with the pressing need for reform in India’s judicial framework. Taking over as Chief Justice of Himachal Pradesh is a culmination of Justice Sandhawalia’s extensive experience and dedication to the judiciary. His role as Chief Justice will involve overseeing the functioning of the High Court, presiding over crucial cases, and working towards enhancing the efficiency of the court system in the state. He is expected to emphasize the importance of accessible justice and might advocate for reforms to streamline legal processes.

According to some retired justices and legal luminaries of hilly states, Justice Sandhawalia’s vision for the High Court is expected to focus on the initiatives to improve case management systems, promote alternative dispute resolution mechanisms, and enhance the use of technology in judicial processes. Furthermore, their optimism is embedded in fostering a collaborative relationship with other branches of the government to ensure that the principles of justice are upheld in line with contemporary societal needs.

In the final analysis, Justice GS Sandhawalia’s long experience, combined with a deep commitment to justice, will serve as a valuable asset as he leads the High Court in addressing the challenges of the legal system in Himachal Pradesh.

(Writer is senior political analyst based in Shimla)