Last Updated:December 26, 2025, 19:56 IST

Speaking about listing priorities, the CJI said matters related to Economically Weaker Sections (EWS), senior citizens and specially-abled persons would be given priority.

Chief Justice of India (CJI) Surya Kant on Friday underscored the need for citizens to continue reposing faith in the justice delivery system, asserting that the Indian judiciary will live up to the expectations of citizens.

While speaking exclusively to CNN-News18, the CJI said, “People should continue their faith in the justice delivery system that they’ve always had. I am quite sure the Indian judiciary will come to their expectations.”

He also spoke about listing his top priorities, criticism of the judiciary, collegium system, and judicial reforms he plans to bring during his tenure.

Chief Justice Kant emphasised that tackling the backlog of pending cases would be his top priority during his tenure. He also said that batch matters would be prioritised to address the growing pendency menace, adding that efficient case management was essential to improve justice delivery.

Speaking about listing priorities, the CJI said matters related to Economically Weaker Sections (EWS), senior citizens and specially-abled persons would be given priority in court listings.

While addressing the criticism of the judiciary, Chief Justice Kant also spoke about the criticism of the judiciary, saying the emerging trend of “judge bashing” was not correct; however, constructive criticism of judgments was not wrong and was part of a healthy democratic process.

When asked about possible reforms in the collegium system, the CJI said there was no such thought process at present, reiterating that the current focus remained firmly on reducing pendency.

The CJI also spoke about judicial reforms which he plans to bring during his tenure, emphasising efficiency, access to justice and timely disposal of cases as key areas of focus.

He also put forth his view on the ongoing row over the Supreme Court’s ruling on the “new definition” of Aravalli mountain range. He said that the matter was sub judice and it may not be appropriate for him to comment on it at this stage.

In its ruling dated November 20, the top court accepted a uniform definition that recognises only landforms rising 100 metres or more above surrounding terrain as “hills”.

Under the accepted definition, any landform with a local relief of 100 metres or more qualifies as an Aravalli Hill, while clusters of such hills within 500 metres — including inter-hill areas — together form an Aravalli Range.

The decision, however, triggered sharp political reactions and street protests, with critics alleging the order weakens environmental protection by allowing mining to continue.

Earlier today, the Chief Justice expressed confidence that experts and institutions will find an effective solution to Delhi’s persistent air pollution crisis.

“I’m confident experts will find a solution to Delhi’s air pollution problem,” the CJI told CNN-News18, reflecting optimism that science-backed interventions and coordinated policymaking can address the issue that has increasingly emerged as a major public health challenge.

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