Lack of judges hits Indian courts, 5,155 posts vacant

KOCHI: A total of 5,155 judicial posts are vacant across courts in the country, including the Supreme Court, out of a sanctioned strength of 27,050. The Supreme Court, which has a strength of 34 judges, currently has one vacancy. The Kerala High Court has 8 vacancies out of its sanctioned 47 judges. Across all High Courts, there is a shortage of 306 judges, while 4,848 posts remain vacant in district and subordinate courts.

At the international level, the number of judges is often compared based on population. In India, there are only 20 judges for every 10 lakh people. In comparison, the United States has about 150 judges per 10 lakh people.

Judges in the Supreme Court and High Courts are appointed through recommendations by the collegium and approval by the central government. Appointments of district judges are decided by the respective High Courts and state governments. Recruitment of munsiffs and magistrates is conducted through exams and interviews.

Amid a huge backlog of cases, reports had suggested that judges might be appointed through the UPSC or tribunals in High Courts and the Supreme Court. However, the Law Ministry has denied these reports and said the current appointment system will continue.

Delay in appointments

• Lack of interest from the government
• Financial constraints
• Reluctance among candidates to take up judicial posts

More than 5 crore cases are pending across courts
4.8 crore cases in district courts
63 lakh cases in High Courts
92,000 cases in the Supreme Court
2.7 lakh cases in the Kerala High Court
18 lakh cases in other courts in Kerala