BS EDIT: Why India’s justice system needs more than just resources

By Business StandardPublished On Apr 18, 2025

The big picture

India’s justice system is underperforming across the board. Even top states score only slightly above average

Systemic vacancies

Police, courts, prisons, and forensics face severe staff shortages. India has only 15 judges per million people

Prisons in crisis

Occupancy is at 131 per cent, with 76 per cent undertrials. SC orders for release are routinely ignored

Legal aid eroding

Fewer para-legal volunteers mean weaker support for the poor. Access to justice is shrinking

Gender and caste gaps

Women and marginalised groups remain underrepresented in police and judiciary across most states

Training still neglected

Poor legal training and colonial mindsets persist. Reform must go beyond filling vacancies