SC lays norms for ad hoc judges’ appointment

Tribune News Service

New Delhi, April 20

As lakhs of cases remain pending in 25 high courts across India, the Supreme Court today paved the way for appointment of retired judges on ad hoc basis.

A Bench headed by Chief Justice of India SA Bobde laid down guidelines for appointment of ad hoc judges in high courts under Article 224A of the Constitution to deal with judicial pendency of specific categories of cases.

Those appointed ad hoc judges would get emoluments and allowances on a par with a permanent judge minus the pension, the top court ordered. Ad hoc judges will be entitled to allowance, perks and perquisites as available to permanent/additional judge(s), it added.

The SC asked the Union Law Ministry to act in tandem with HCs and submit a progress report in four months.

The order came on a PIL filed by “Lok Prahari” seeking appointment of ad hoc judges to clear pendency of cases.