Too many coffee breaks: SC criticises High Court judges, proposes performance review

THE JHARKHAND STORY NETWORK

New Delhi, May 14: The Supreme Court of India has raised serious concerns over the delay in pronouncement of judgments by High Courts, questioning the work ethic of some judges who allegedly take excessive breaks during court hours.

The apex court’s remarks came during a hearing on Monday in a case where four convicts were forced to remain in custody for nearly three years after their appeals were heard and reserved by the Jharkhand High Court — but never decided.

‘Unnecessary Breaks Undermine Performance’

A Bench comprising Justices Surya Kant and N. Kotiswar Singh did not mince words as it turned its attention to systemic inefficiencies within the judiciary.

“We want to examine a larger issue: What is the output of the High Courts? How much are we spending on the system, and what are we getting in return? What benchmarks are in place?” Justice Kant observed.

He continued: “Some judges work incredibly hard and make us proud. But others are unfortunately disappointing. We’re hearing about judges taking tea breaks, coffee breaks, this break, that break. Why not work continuously, with only a lunch break? It would lead to better performance and better outcomes.”

Delayed Justice, Lost Liberty

The Supreme Court was hearing a petition filed by four convicts whose appeals had been reserved by the Jharkhand High Court two to three years ago. After intervention from the apex court, the High Court recently delivered its verdict—acquitting three of the convicts and issuing a split decision in the case of the fourth. All four were ordered to be released from custody.

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Advocate Fauzia Shakil, representing the petitioners, thanked the Court for its intervention, noting that the case touched on the fundamental issue of personal liberty. “They could have walked free three years ago had the judgments been delivered on time,” she said.

Justice Kant expressed regret over the delay, affirming the Court’s disappointment.

Court Seeks Wider Judicial Accountability

In light of the delays, the Supreme Court signalled its intention to evolve mechanisms for ensuring timely judgments, reaffirming that High Courts must adhere to the timelines already prescribed by the apex court.

Last week, in connection with the same matter, the Court requested data from all High Courts on judgments that have remained reserved without pronouncement since before 31 January 2025.