Indian Judicial System and Reforms: The Story of Delays and Pendency
Mohd Adnan* and Lakee Ali
ABSTRACT
India’s judiciary faces a crisis of credibility with over 50 million pending cases, making justice appear more like a distant promise than a lived reality. This paper explores the systemic delays in FIRs and chargesheets, aggravated by corruption, inefficiency, and political interference. It revisits landmark rulings like Hussainara Khatoon and Kadra Pahadiya, which recognised speedy trial as a fundamental right under Article 21, yet remain largely symbolic for millions of undertrials. Drawing lessons from global practicesthe US balancing test, UKECHR stopwatch, Canada’s Jordan timelines, and SingaporeEstonia’s digital courtsthe paper argues that while technology offers speed, true reform demands accountability, transparency, and insulation from political pressure. Ensuring speedy, fair, and transparent justice is not just legal necessityit is the lifeblood of Indian democracy.
