THE RAJASTHAN HIGH COURT: EVOLUTION AND YEARS OF JUDICIAL

EXCELLENCE

“Investigate well, show favour to none, maintain impartiality, consult

the law, then give judgement-that is the way of Justice”
-Kural 541

Introduction

The judicial history of Rajasthan is a compelling narrative of the transition from a

fragmented princely state system to a unified judicial entity. The evolution of the
Rajasthan High Court mirrors the broader historical and administrative changes
that have shaped the state since its inception. We delves deeply into the history,
development, and current state of the Rajasthan High Court, providing an
elaborate account of its journey from multiple princely courts to a unified high
court system.
Pre and Post-Independence Judicial System
Before India gained independence in 1947, the region now known as Rajasthan
was a mosaic of princely states, each with its own legal and judicial systems.
These states, including Jaipur, Jodhpur, Bikaner, Udaipur, and Alwar, operated
independently, with their own high courts and legal norms. This decentralized
judicial setup reflected the political fragmentation of the era, where each princely
state maintained sovereignty over its internal affairs.
The post-independence integration of these princely states into the Republic of
India necessitated a unified judicial framework. The need for consistency in legal
proceedings and uniform application of laws across the newly formed state was
paramount. This led to the conceptualization of a single high court for Rajasthan,
ensuring that justice could be administered uniformly across the entire region.

Establishment of the Rajasthan High Court

In response to this need, Maharaja Sawai Man Singh II, the Rajpramukh
(appointed head of state) of Rajasthan, promulgated the Rajasthan High Court
Ordinance in 1949. This ordinance established the High Court of Judicature for
the United States of Rajasthan. On August 29, 1949, the High Court was formally
inaugurated at Jodhpur, with Shri Kamalkant Verma taking oath as the first Chief
Justice, accompanied by 11 puisne judges. This marked the beginning of a new
era in the judicial history of Rajasthan.
The principal seat of the High Court was established in Jodhpur, a decision
influenced by the city's central location and historical significance. Additionally,
benches were set up in Jaipur, Udaipur, Bikaner, and Kota to cater to the judicial
needs of these regions.
With the adoption of the Constitution of India on January 26, 1950, the judicial
landscape of the country underwent significant changes. The strength of the High
Court's judges was reduced from the initial 11 to six, reflecting the broader
restructuring of the Indian judiciary under the new constitutional framework.
Consequently, the benches at Udaipur, Bikaner, and Kota were abolished on May
22, 1950, although the Jaipur Bench continued to function, serving the eastern
part of the state.

• State Reorganization Act and Further Developments

The reorganization of states in 1956 brought further changes to Rajasthan's
judicial structure. Under the States Reorganization Act, 1956, Rajasthan was
recognized as a Class A state, necessitating a revision of its judicial framework.
The Act led to the establishment of the Rajasthan High Court with its principal
seat at Jodhpur. The Chief Justice at that time, K.N. Wanchoo, took oath along
with six puisne judges, continuing the legacy of judicial service in a unified
Rajasthan.
• Abolition and Re-establishment of the Jaipur Bench
In 1958, based on recommendations from a committee comprising Sarva Shri P.
Satyanarain Rao, V. Vishwanathan, and B.K. Gupta, the Jaipur Bench was
abolished. This decision aimed at streamlining the judicial process by
centralizing operations at the principal seat in Jodhpur. However, the importance
of having a judicial presence in the state capital was soon recognized, leading to
the re-establishment of the Jaipur Bench on January 31, 1977, under the High
Court of Rajasthan (Establishment of a Permanent Bench at Jaipur) Order, 1976.
This bench started functioning again, providing accessible justice to the residents
of Jaipur and nearby regions.
• Judicial Strength and Current Structure
As of today, the Rajasthan High Court has a sanctioned strength of 50 judges,
although the actual number of sitting judges may vary. The principal seat in
Jodhpur and the Jaipur Bench collectively house 46 courtrooms, facilitating the
administration of justice across the state. The High Court oversees a network of
36 judgeships and more than 1,250 subordinate courts, ensuring that judicial
services are accessible to citizens throughout Rajasthan.
• Modern Infrastructure and Facilities
The Rajasthan High Court has continually evolved, not just in terms of its judicial
processes but also through significant infrastructural advancements. One of the
most notable developments in recent years was the inauguration of a new high
court building in Jodhpur. On December 7, 2019, the Honorable President of
India, Shri Ramnath Kovind, inaugurated this state-of-the-art facility, marking a
new chapter in the history of the Rajasthan High Court. The new building, located
on the outskirts of Jodhpur, features 22 courtrooms, designed to accommodate
modern judicial requirements and ensure efficient functioning.
Similarly, the Jaipur Bench operates from a building inaugurated on December
16, 2006, by the then Chief Justice of India, Mr. Y.K. Sabharwal. This facility,
adjacent to the old heritage building, provides a conducive environment for
judicial proceedings and houses several courtrooms equipped with modern
amenities.

Supporting Judicial Institutions

The Rajasthan High Court is supported by various judicial and legal institutions
that enhance its functioning and outreach. The Rajasthan State Legal Services
Authority, established on April 4, 1995, operates from the heritage building of
the Jaipur Bench. This authority plays a crucial role in providing legal aid and
ensuring access to justice for underprivileged sections of society.
Furthermore, the Rajasthan State Judicial Academy, established in 2003, offers
comprehensive training programs for judicial officers. The new building of the
academy, inaugurated on September 26, 2015, by Honorable Mr. Justice Amita
Roy, Judge of the Supreme Court of India, is well-equipped with all necessary
facilities, including WiFi connectivity. The academy's mission is to enhance the
skills and knowledge of judicial officers, ensuring that they are well-prepared to
handle the complexities of modern jurisprudence.
Additionally, the Archives and Law Museum at the Jaipur Bench, inaugurated by
Honorable Mr. Justice Altamas Kabir, Judge of the Supreme Court of India, serves
as a repository of legal history and knowledge. It provides valuable resources for
researchers, legal professionals, and the general public interested in the judicial
heritage of Rajasthan.

Challenges and Future Directions

While the Rajasthan High Court has made significant strides in its journey, it
faces several challenges that need to be addressed to further enhance its
effectiveness. One of the primary challenges is the backlog of cases, a common
issue across many high courts in India. Efforts to streamline judicial processes,
increase the number of judges, and implement modern case management
systems are crucial to reducing delays and ensuring timely justice.
Another important area is the continued modernization of court infrastructure.
While significant advancements have been made with the new buildings in
Jodhpur and Jaipur, ongoing investments in technology and facilities are
necessary to keep pace with evolving judicial needs. Digitalization of court
records, implementation of e-courts, and adoption of virtual hearing facilities are
steps that can enhance efficiency and accessibility.
Furthermore, expanding legal awareness and outreach programs is essential to
ensure that all citizens, particularly those in rural and underserved areas, are
aware of their legal rights and have access to legal aid services. Strengthening the
Rajasthan State Legal Services Authority and other legal aid initiatives can play a
pivotal role in achieving this goal.

Conclusion
The Rajasthan High Court's journey from a collection of princely state courts to a
unified judicial institution is a testament to the region's commitment to justice
and legal excellence. Over the decades, the High Court has navigated numerous
challenges and transformations, continually adapting to the needs of the state
and its people. With its rich history, modern infrastructure, and dedicated
judicial officers, the Rajasthan High Court stands as a beacon of justice, poised to
meet the challenges of the future while upholding the principles of fairness and
equity. As Rajasthan continues to evolve, the High Court will undoubtedly play a
crucial role in shaping the state's legal landscape, ensuring that justice remains
accessible and impartial for all its citizens.