158,000+ Cases Await Resolution

Chief Justice Bishwombhar Prasad Shrestha presented the annual report of the Supreme Court, Judicial Council, and Judicial Service Commission for the fiscal year 2022/23 to President Ram Chandra Paudel. The report highlights a staggering number of pending court cases across the nation, standing at 158,147 in total, emphasizing the pressing need for judicial reforms and efficiency enhancement.

According to the comprehensive report, a total of 339,990 cases and writs were registered at both the apex court and subordinate courts and tribunals since the last fiscal year. Disturbingly, the number further swelled with an additional 180,139 new cases registered in the current fiscal year.

Despite concerted efforts, the report underscores that only 53.48 percent of court cases and writs have been settled thus far. Out of the total cases, 38,933, including those transferred to the Supreme Court since the last fiscal year, saw a disposition rate of 28.44 percent, leaving 27,860 cases pending.

Moreover, the report delineates the disposition rates across different judicial tiers. Notably, out of 62,854 cases and writ petitions transferred to 18 high courts and benches, 61.84 percent were disposed of, while 23,986 remain unresolved. Similarly, at the district court level, 55.53 percent of cases have been disposed of, leaving 104,430 cases pending.

Furthermore, the report sheds light on the disposition of cases at various levels, indicating a need for focused attention on improving the efficiency of the judicial system. It reveals that among 3,366 court cases, including those transferred to other courts and tribunals, only 44.41 percent have been disposed of, with 1,871 cases still awaiting resolution.

This disclosure underscores the imperative for concerted efforts to streamline judicial processes, enhance capacity, and implement reforms to address the mounting backlog of court cases. As mandated by Article 138 of the Constitution, the Supreme Court’s annual report serves as a crucial mechanism for transparency and accountability, prompting stakeholders to address the challenges impeding the timely delivery of justice.