Judges Work Under Tremendous Pressure, Taking Steps To Address All Concerns Of Bar: MP High Court Chief Justice Sanjeev Sachdeva

Justice Sanjeev Sachdeva who recently took oath of the Chief Justice's office at the Madhya Pradesh High Court, on Friday (July 16) set the tone for his tenure by underlining a collective vision rooted in institutional legacy, judicial accountability and Bar-Bench collaboration.

His address at the Ovation ceremony underscored not only the immediate challenges confronting the judiciary but also long-term reforms necessary to build a more resilient and responsive legal system. 

Acknowledging the 'tremendous work pressure' on the judges due to an overwhelming caseload, he emphasised systemic resilience and institutional commitment to reducing case backlogs.

He noted that despite operating with a 'truncated strength', the High Court had achieved 'about 90% disposal vis-a-vis filing', a figure that reflected the dedication of judges and registry staff alike. 

"Registry officers work tirelessly in dealing with vast volume of cases that are filed on a daily basis. The officers even sacrifice their holidays to ensure that the cases are checked and listed at the earliest...With new judges expected to join, we should be able to target the issue of pendency in a great manner", he said.

Justice Sachdeva also recognized the challenges faced by Judicial officers of the district judiciary and said, "Sometimes they have to work far away from their families. The service rendered by them is for a greater cause, which is to bring justice to the doorstep of a common man. Efforts are being made by the High Court to make their work environment more conducive".

He added that empowerment of the Bar, particularly young lawyers, who form the future backbone of the judicial system is indispensable.

"The Bench is the product of the Bar. Judges come from the Bar, and the Bench is only a transitory phase in our life. After devoting to office, we go back to the Bar...For Senior Advocates, I would like to say that you must mentor and guide the youngsters as you were guided by your seniors. These youngsters are the new future. We must support and train them, for we have to one day hand over the Baton to them, to carry it forward."

Lastly, acknowledging the concerns raised Bar, the Judge said,

"Every effort is being made by the Court to address them. Members of the Bar have to realise that all changes take time to show results. Any step taken in the right earnest would definitely show results, but one has to be patient. Challenges cannot be addressed single-handedly. Equal effort is required from the Bar for resolving the problems. My request to Bar Association is, please don't come forward just with issues. Also, give your suggestions to tackle the problem".

"A well prepared advocate would be concise in his submissions and would avoid bringing frivolous litigation,' he concluded.