SC Junks PIL Seeking 1-Year Timeline For All Cases, Calls It 'Publicity Interest Litigation'

The Supreme Court on Monday dismissed a public interest litigation (PIL) seeking that every court in India decide cases within a one-year timeframe.

While rejecting the plea, the court called the plea as

a “publicity interest litigation” and expressed its displeasure over attempts to use the judiciary as a platform for public attention.

A bench comprising Chief Justice Surya Kant and Justices Dipankar Datta and Joymalya Bagchi heard the plea, filed by Kamlesh Tripathi, who appeared and argued in person. The petitioner had sought a directive mandating all courts resolve cases within a one-year timeframe.

Responding to Tripathi’s plea for “bringing change to the country,” Chief Justice Kant said that a formal petition was not the appropriate vehicle for such aspirations. “You want to change the country, right? You don’t need to file such a petition, you can simply write a letter and send it to me,” he said.

“Do not file petitions just so you can speak in front of the cameras outside,” the Chief Justice added.

Questioning the practicality of Tripathi’s demand, the bench asked, “You are saying every court should decide within a year? How many such courts do you want?”

The bench noted that issuing such a sweeping order was not feasible and emphasised that systemic judicial reforms should follow proper channels.

“The petitioner, if so advised, may submit a letter on the administrative side to the CJI, with suggestions, if any, for the purpose of judicial reforms. It goes without saying that any such suggestions are always welcome,” the court observed.

(With inputs from PTI)