SC Set For Grand Expansion: To Get 29 More Courtrooms, Modern Facilities For Judges, Officials And Lawyers

Supreme Court of India is all set to witness a grand expansion adding 29 more court rooms. At the ground breaking ceremony, Chief Justice D Y Chandrachud said new structure spread over 86,500 square meters of built-up area, will be constructed in two phases. First phase will be completed within 29 months, the CJI announced, adding it will cover approximately 38,250 square meters and consist of two basements and a five-story building.

The ground floor will be dedicated to lawyers' utility spaces, including a library, canteen, and offices for the Supreme Court Bar Association and the Supreme Court Advocates-on-Record Association.The upper floors will accommodate courtrooms, judges' lounges, court offices, and the Chief Justice’s chambers.“By the time we complete Phase II, which will span an additional 48,250 square meters over three- and four-story blocks, the Supreme Court will have gained an additional 29 courtrooms, 43 new judges’ chambers, and dedicated spaces for registrars and lawyers. Notably, the Constitutional Court, with its 17-judge bench, will be placed on the fifth floor of the new structure. These additions reflect the commitment of our judiciary to remain dynamic, relevant, and responsive to the increased complexity of cases weface today. We are not just adding space, we are expanding our capabilities to deliver justice in a timely and dignified manner”, the Chief Justice said.“As the nation evolves, so do the challenges that our legal system faces. The expansion of the Court is designed to accommodate the increasing caseloads, new judicial benches, and the requirements of our judges, lawyers, and citizens. The expansion is not just about increasing physical space; it’s about building capacity for justice. While the original structure will remain intact, the subsequent additions to the complex will make way for the new, state-of-the-art facilities”, said the Chief Justice.The facilities will be equipped with state-of-the-art technology and infrastructure, allowing for seamless case management, accessibility, and the incorporation of modern tools to support the work of the court. With an increased capacity to host more lawyers, judges, and staff, we are also creating a space that fosters collaboration and learning, key aspects of any thriving judicial system, he said.Sitting judges Justices Sanjiv Khanna, BR Gavai, Vikram Nath and BV Nagarathna and former apex court judge Justice Sanjay Kishan Kaul participated in the ground breaking ceremony.Law Minister Arjun Ram Meghwal, Union Power and Housing Minister Manohar Lal also attended the event.The dignitaries used pickaxes at the site of the new building to mark the event. “Not Brick And Mortar”The Chief Justice Added: “As we move forward with this expansion, we are not just adding brick and mortar to an existing structure; we are contributing to the lasting legacy of the Supreme Court of India. This building will stand as a testament to our commitment to justice, fairness, and progress. This expansion, much like ourConstitution itself, is designed to serve as a living, breathing entity, adapting to the needs of our society while holding firm to its core values of justice, liberty, and equality. Today’s event signifies not just the physical growth of our institution but also the broader mandate of ensuring that justice is accessible, efficient, and ever-responsive to the needs of the nation.”“The expansion of the Supreme Court is more than just a construction project—it is a reflection of our collective commitment to the ideals of justice and the rule of law. I look forward to seeing this project come to life and to witnessing the positive impact it will have on our legal system. A project of this magnitude requires the expertise and dedication of various stakeholders”, said the Chief Justice.