Lawyers Raise Concerns to Chief Justice DY Chandrachud Over Delhi Court Practices

On Thursday, several lawyers, including Sanjeev Nasiar and Balraj Singh Malik, wrote to Chief Justice of India DY Chandrachud. They expressed their worries about some unusual practices in the Delhi High Court and District Courts of Delhi.

Concerns Over Internal Orders

The lawyers informed the Chief Justice about an internal administrative order from the District Judge of Rouse Avenue Court. This order directed all vacation courts not to give any final orders but to issue notices to regular courts after the vacation. They argued that this order is both administratively and procedurally irregular and defeats the purpose of having vacation courts.

Conflict of Interest

The lawyers also pointed out a conflict of interest involving Justice Sudhir Kumar Jain. They stated that Justice Jain should have recused himself from the proceedings because his brother, Anurag Jain, is a counsel for the Enforcement Directorate. This conflict was not declared, and the orders passed were irregular.

Impact on Justice

The representation highlighted that these practices are slowing down the pace of decision-making in courts. Many lawyers with cases listed during the vacation have not been able to get final decisions. They also noted that judges are not recording submissions by advocates in their orders, which is highly unusual and needs correction.

Call for Action

The lawyers requested the Chief Justice to pass directions ensuring that submissions made during hearings are recorded in front of the lawyers before the matter is adjourned. They emphasized that the current practices are a travesty of justice and need immediate attention.

Current Status

The Delhi High Court has stayed the Rouse Avenue Court’s order granting bail to Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal in a liquor policy case. The High Court allowed the Enforcement Directorate’s plea seeking a stay on the trial court’s order.