Letters: One appeal, one case

This refers to the editorial "Justice still denied" (April 30). Given the number of pending cases, it is true that more courts need to be set up in the country, with an increase in the number of working days. In fact, the judicial system should be treated as an essential service and made accessible throughout the year. Another factor that has hindered the quick disposal of cases is the acceptance of endless appeals against verdicts of lower courts. Currently, an aggrieved party is able to appeal to the High Court for reviewing the decision of a district court. If they are not satisfied with the High Court, they go for an appeal to the Supreme Court. Such multi-tier appeals are the machinations of parties who benefit if the cases remain stuck in the system for a lengthy period. So, the system should permit only one appeal per case. In case of civil matters, a system of counselling may be set up to enable contesting parties to try and settle cases outside the courts, so as to avoid delays and unnecessary expenditure.

V Sridhar Kolkata

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