Parliamentary Committee Highlights Slow Fund Utilization for Judicial Infrastructure
Synopsis
A Parliamentary Standing Committee raises alarms over the slow pace of fund utilization by States for judicial infrastructure developments. This highlights the need for better monitoring and gender-sensitive designs in court facilities.
Key Takeaways
Concerns over slow fund utilization for judicial infrastructure by various States.
Need for better monitoring of the Centrally Sponsored Scheme (CSS).
Emphasis on gender-sensitive court designs and adequate facilities.
Recommendations for upgrading court infrastructure nationwide.
Urgent need to address digital infrastructure deficiencies in courts.
New Delhi, March 16 (NationPress) A Parliamentary Standing Committee has raised concerns regarding the sluggish expenditure and fund utilization by various States in 2025-26, aimed at establishing court halls and residential units. This issue was highlighted in a report presented to both Houses on Monday, according to an official statement.
The Department-related Parliamentary Standing Committee on Personnel, Public Grievances, Law and Justice, led by Brij Lal, MP from Rajya Sabha, underscored the necessity for enhanced monitoring of the Centrally Sponsored Scheme (CSS) intended for the Development of Infrastructure Facilities for Judiciary. This is crucial for ensuring that funds are utilized on time and projects are completed without delay.
In the Committee's 162nd Report concerning the Demands for Grants (2026-27) from the Department of Justice (Ministry of Law & Justice), it was also highlighted that court designs must be gender-sensitive. This includes the provision of separate and adequate facilities for women lawyers, litigants, and staff, along with dedicated child-care and crèche facilities within court complexes.
Furthermore, the House panel reiterated the importance of upgrading court infrastructure throughout the nation, as stated by the official.
The report acknowledged that the Centrally Sponsored Scheme (CSS) has significantly contributed to enhancing judicial infrastructure across States and Union Territories, as evidenced by the cumulative release of Central aid and the establishment of court halls and residential units.
“Despite substantial releases made under the Scheme, the Committee expresses concern regarding the slow pace of expenditure and fund utilization in many States during 2025–26,” the report stated.
“Thus, the Committee recommends that the Department, in collaboration with State Governments and High Court Level Monitoring Committees, enhance monitoring and review mechanisms to ensure timely utilization of funds and the completion of projects,” it added.
The House panel also urged the Department to proactively address procedural and system-related issues, including capacity-building for the effective implementation of the SNA-SPARSH framework. This is vital to achieving the objectives of the Scheme.
Additionally, the Committee noted that the deficiencies in digital infrastructure and the lack of proper network connectivity in courts should be urgently rectified. Such facilities should be uniformly provided to High Courts and subordinate courts, rather than being limited to the Supreme Court of India.
Point of View
It's essential to recognize the significance of timely fund utilization for judicial infrastructure. This issue not only affects court facilities but also the overall efficiency of the justice system. The recommendations for better monitoring and gender-sensitive designs highlight a progressive approach towards enhancing legal access for all.
NationPress
1 Jul 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main concern raised by the Parliamentary Standing Committee?
The main concern is the slow pace of fund expenditure and utilization by States aimed at building court halls and residential units during 2025-26.
What recommendations did the Committee make?
The Committee recommended stronger monitoring mechanisms and emphasized the need for gender-sensitive court designs and improved digital infrastructure.
Why is gender-sensitive court design important?
Gender-sensitive court design is crucial for providing equitable facilities for women lawyers, litigants, and staff, ensuring accessibility and comfort for all.
What is the CSS in relation to the judiciary?
The Centrally Sponsored Scheme (CSS) is a program aimed at enhancing infrastructure facilities for the judiciary across States and Union Territories.
How can the issues of fund utilization be addressed?
The issues can be addressed by enhancing coordination between the Department, State Governments, and High Courts to ensure timely fund utilization and project completion.
