Why is the Bombay HC Establishing a Fourth Bench in Kolhapur?
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Synopsis
The Bombay High Court is set to enhance its services with a new bench in Kolhapur, effective August 18. Chief Justice Alok Aradhe's announcement promises improved access to justice for residents across multiple districts, fulfilling a long-standing demand.
Key Takeaways
- The Bombay High Court is establishing a new bench in Kolhapur.
- The bench will become operational on August 18, 2025.
- It aims to enhance access to justice for six districts in the region.
- This decision fulfills a long-standing demand from local residents.
- Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis expressed his support for this initiative.
Mumbai, August 1 (NationPress) The Chief Justice of the Bombay High Court, Alok Aradhe, announced on Friday the establishment of a new bench in Kolhapur, which is set to begin operations on August 18. The gazette notification states, "In accordance with the authority granted by subsection (3) of Section 51 of the States Reorganisation Act, 1956 (No. 37 of 1956), and all other related powers, I, Alok Aradhe, Chief Justice of the High Court of Judicature at Bombay, with the consent of the Governor of Maharashtra, designate Kolhapur as a location where Judges and Division Courts of the High Court may convene, effective from August 18, 2025."
At present, the Bombay High Court has its main bench in Mumbai, along with two other benches in Nagpur and Aurangabad, as well as a third bench in Goa. Kolhapur will now serve as the fourth bench.
Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis expressed his enthusiasm on X, stating: "I am thrilled to announce that the Mumbai High Court has made provisions for the administration of justice (Circuit Bench) in Kolhapur. The relevant gazette has been published and will take effect from August 18, 2025. This initiative will cater to the six districts of Kolhapur, Satara, Sangli, Solapur, Ratnagiri, and Sindhudurg.
"This has been a long-awaited request from the residents of this area. The advocacy for this change has persisted for several years, and I have been approached multiple times on this matter. Since my initial term as Chief Minister, I have been dedicated to this cause, and it has finally come to fruition. The Mumbai High Court already operates three benches in Nagpur, Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar, and Goa. This Circuit Bench will be an addition to these existing ones."
Furthermore, he added: "I extend my heartfelt gratitude to the Chief Justice of India, Hon. Justice Bhushan Gavai, and the Chief Justice of Maharashtra, Hon. Justice Alok Aradhe. This will greatly enhance the efficiency of the justice administration and will also save the time, effort, and resources of the citizens. Congratulations to the people and lawyers of the area!"
Point of View
The establishment of a new bench in Kolhapur by the Bombay High Court reflects a commitment to enhancing legal accessibility for citizens. This initiative not only addresses long-standing demands but also emphasizes the importance of local governance in judicial matters.
NationPress
02/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
When will the Kolhapur bench become operational?
The Kolhapur bench of the Bombay High Court will start functioning on August 18, 2025.
What districts will the Kolhapur bench serve?
The Kolhapur bench will serve the districts of Kolhapur, Satara, Sangli, Solapur, Ratnagiri, and Sindhudurg.
Who announced the formation of the Kolhapur bench?
The Chief Justice of the Bombay High Court, Alok Aradhe, announced the formation of the Kolhapur bench.
What is the significance of the new bench?
The new bench aims to improve access to justice for residents in the surrounding districts, fulfilling a long-standing demand.
How many benches does the Bombay High Court currently have?
The Bombay High Court currently has benches in Mumbai, Nagpur, Aurangabad, and Goa, with Kolhapur being the fourth.
