Is it the State Government's Duty to Fund Court Infrastructure Development?
Click to start listening
Synopsis
The Calcutta High Court asserts that the responsibility for funding court infrastructure lies with the state government, emphasizing the need for timely disbursement of funds. As ongoing projects face delays, the court has mandated a detailed report from the state by October 27, ensuring accountability in judicial funding.
Key Takeaways
- The state government holds the responsibility for court infrastructure funding.
- Delays in funding can impede judicial efficiency.
- The court has mandated a report by October 27 to ensure accountability.
- Rs 50 crore has been allocated for court improvements, but clarity on other projects is needed.
- Timely funding is essential for the effective functioning of the judicial system.
Kolkata, Sep 24 (NationPress) The Calcutta High Court emphasized that the funding for the infrastructure enhancement of both the high court and the lower courts in West Bengal falls under the purview of the state government, and should not be perceived as a charitable act.
During the hearing concerning the unpaid dues owed by the state government for infrastructure improvements at the Calcutta High Court and its subordinate courts, the division bench comprising Justice Debangshu Basak and Justice Shabbar Rashidi noted that only a minimal portion of the state budget is earmarked for judicial infrastructure development. Furthermore, there has been a noticeable delay from the state administration in disbursing even this limited amount promptly.
The bench underscored that the state should refrain from viewing this financial obligation as a charitable contribution, as providing funds for court infrastructure falls squarely within the responsibilities of the state government.
On the same day, the division bench mandated that the state government present a comprehensive report by October 27 detailing the funds already allocated for the infrastructure development of the high court and its subordinate courts, along with a timeline for the release of any pending funds.
Additionally, the division bench instructed the Chief Secretary, Finance Secretary, and Calcutta High Court Registrar General to convene on October 15, and if necessary, again on October 22 to resolve the existing issues.
Earlier in a hearing on September 19, Chief Secretary Manoj Pant informed the court that Rs 50 crore has been allocated for the betterment of various lower and district courts across the state.
However, the division bench remarked that the state government had yet to clarify its position regarding funds for 53 other similar infrastructure development projects for lower and district courts.
The primary concern raised against the state government was the delay in completing several infrastructure-related projects at various courts, including some at the Calcutta High Court, due to outstanding funds owed by the state government.
Point of View
It is crucial to acknowledge the Calcutta High Court's stance on the state's responsibility towards judicial infrastructure. The call for timely funding not only impacts the efficiency of the courts but also upholds the principle of accountability in governance. As citizens, we must advocate for the necessary resources to ensure justice is served without undue delay.
NationPress
25/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Calcutta High Court's stance on funding for court infrastructure?
The Calcutta High Court has stated that the state government is responsible for funding court infrastructure and should not view it as a charitable obligation.
What deadline has the court set for the state government regarding funding?
The court has set a deadline of October 27 for the state government to provide a detailed report on the funds released for court infrastructure development.
How much funding has been allocated for court infrastructure in West Bengal?
The state government has allocated Rs 50 crore for the improvement of various lower and district courts in West Bengal.
What issues have arisen concerning court infrastructure funding?
Several infrastructure projects at various courts, including the Calcutta High Court, have been delayed due to outstanding funds owed by the state government.
Who is required to meet to discuss the funding issues?
The Chief Secretary, Finance Secretary, and the Calcutta High Court Registrar General are directed to meet to resolve the funding complications.
