30 May 2025: The Hindu Editorial Analysis

Judicial Pendency Crisis

• Over 4 crore cases pending across Indian courts; lower courts account for the majority.

• Speedy justice remains elusive, affecting citizen trust and access to justice.

Issues in Trial Courts

• Huge vacancy of judges (35% in subordinate courts).

• Lack of infrastructure and digitization at the grassroots.

• Delays in police investigation and charge sheet filings worsen the problem.

Policy and Administrative Inertia

• Recommendations from Law Commissions, SC judgments, and expert bodies are inadequately implemented.

• Poor coordination between executive and judiciary stalls reforms.

Way Forward

• Fast-track judge appointments and enhance court staff strength.

• Improve courtroom infrastructure, including e-Courts integration.

• Encourage ADR mechanisms like Lok Adalats and mediation.

Background

• Bihar’s caste survey initiated to gather data for targeted welfare schemes.

• Highlights absence of comprehensive caste data since 1931.

Significance

• Aims to ensure equitable distribution of state resources.

• Provides a framework for caste-based affirmative action.

Concerns and Challenges

• Fear of political misuse and social fragmentation.

• Data privacy, accuracy, and inter-state comparability remain contentious.

National Relevance

• May prompt similar initiatives in other states.

• Could influence future Census formats and reservation debates.

Way Forward

• Ensure transparent data management and non-partisan implementation.

• National debate on linking caste data to socio-economic policies.

• Strengthen constitutional values of equality and dignity.