In a significant move aimed at strengthening the justice delivery system, Justice Arun Palli, Chief Justice, High Court of Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh has launched a Comprehensive Action Plan for disposal of cases.

The initiative focuses on timely resolution of pending cases, reduction of backlog, and enhancement of judicial efficiency.

Recognizing the growing concern over case pendency and delayed justice, the Chief Justice has outlined a multi-pronged strategy to ensure swift and effective adjudication of matters, especially those that have been pending for several years.

Chief Justice of the High Court of J&K and Ladakh, while launching Phase IV & V, emphasized the importance of judicial efficiency in strengthening public trust. He said that the Justice delayed is justice denied, and this Action Plan reflects the unwavering commitment to timely and accessible justice for all the citizens of Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh.

Following the successful completion of Phases I to III, the next phases i.e. – Phase IV (July 2025 – December 2025) and Phase V (January 2026 – June 2026 aims to deepen the impact of earlier interventions and enhance the delivery of timely justice to citizens.

This structured initiative aims to address the persistent backlog of cases in the district judiciary through strategic planning, monitoring, and implementation of best practices in judicial administration.

 The following are the objectives of Phase IV:

• Identification and prioritization of 10 year-old cases and cases involving senior citizens, women, and vulnerable groups
• Expansion of Evening/Weekend Courts and Special Arrears Sessions
• Strengthening of case management systems through digital dashboards and monthly performance reviews
• Improved coordination with the Bar and Prosecution Departments for early disposal
• And, the objectives of Phase V are as under:
• Consolidation of gains from previous phases
• Rollout of paperless courts in select districts on a pilot basis
• Enhancement of ADR mechanisms including mediation and Lok Adalats for compoundable matters
• Capacity building through targeted training for judicial officers and court staff

The implementation of Phases IV and V will be closely monitored by the Arrears Committee of the High Court, with monthly reporting from all District and Sessions Judges. Progress will be evaluated based on quantifiable metrics including disposal rates, reduction in pendency, and compliance with timelines.