The government on Thursday disclosed that 4,855 judicial officer posts in district and subordinate courts across India remain vacant, highlighting a critical strain on the country’s judicial system. Law and Justice Minister Arjun Ram Meghwal informed the Rajya Sabha that these vacancies exist out of a total sanctioned strength of 25,886 officers. As of December 1, 2025, the total number of cases pending in subordinate courts stood at a staggering 4,80,42,720, reflecting the immense pressure on the judiciary.

During the Question Hour, Meghwal clarified that recruitment of judicial officers in district courts is managed by state public service commissions in 16 states, while the remaining states rely on high courts to conduct appointments. He emphasized that the responsibility to fill vacant posts lies jointly with state governments and high courts, as per the constitutional framework outlined under Articles 233 and 234. The ministry continues to correspond with high courts to expedite the recruitment process.

The minister highlighted that under the Constitution, state governments, in consultation with the respective high courts, frame rules and regulations for the appointment and recruitment of judicial officers. These appointments are governed by established protocols aimed at maintaining judicial independence while addressing regional requirements. Despite these provisions, delays in recruitment continue to hamper timely justice delivery.

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Meghwal also referenced the Supreme Court’s 2007 order in the Malik Mazhar Sultan case, which set timelines for states and high courts to complete recruitment for district and subordinate courts. However, several states have struggled to adhere to these timelines, contributing to growing vacancies and exacerbating the backlog of pending cases. The prolonged delays are seen as a systemic challenge, impacting citizens’ access to speedy justice.

Experts note that the shortage of judicial officers significantly affects case disposal rates, particularly in states with high pendency. Many judges are overburdened, handling hundreds of cases simultaneously, which can delay hearings and judgments. Civil and criminal cases alike are affected, leading to prolonged legal uncertainty for litigants.

The government has indicated its commitment to urging high courts and state authorities to prioritize recruitment and fill vacancies. However, legal analysts stress that structural reforms, alongside recruitment drives, are essential to reduce the mounting backlog and improve judicial efficiency. Without immediate action, the gap between sanctioned strength and actual judicial officers could continue to deepen, straining India’s legal system further.

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