New Delhi: The CJI Surya Kant on Supreme Court Registry lapse has become a major legal development after the Chief Justice of India strongly criticised the functioning of the Supreme Court Registry.
During a recent hearing, CJI Surya Kant expressed sharp dissatisfaction over a serious administrative error related to court orders. The incident has raised concerns about internal judicial accountability within India’s top court system.
What Happened in the Supreme Court?
During court proceedings, a bench led by Chief Justice Surya Kant observed a major discrepancy between its earlier order and the official report prepared by the Supreme Court Registry.
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The bench had clearly directed that a notice be issued to the Enforcement Directorate (ED). However, the Registry’s office report stated that no such direction had been given.
This contradiction triggered strong remarks from the Chief Justice.
Details of CJI Surya Kant on Supreme Court Registry Lapse
Expressing serious displeasure, CJI Surya Kant made a sharp comment on the Registry’s functioning, stating:
“Very nasty Registry, they think they are super Chief Justice of India.”
The remark highlights the Court’s concern that administrative officials may be overstepping their role or failing to properly implement judicial orders.
Court Directives
The Supreme Court bench, which also included Justice Joymalya Bagchi, took serious note of the issue.
The Court emphasized that:
- The earlier order clearly directed issuance of notice to ED
- The Registry’s report failed to reflect that direction
- Such lapses can affect the integrity of judicial proceedings
This mismatch raised questions about how court directions are recorded and executed.
CJI Surya Kant on Supreme Court Registry Lapse: Fact-Finding Inquiry Ordered
To address the issue, the Court has directed:
- The Registrar (Judicial) to conduct a fact-finding inquiry
- Submission of a detailed explanation on:
- Why the order was not reflected correctly
- Why notice was not issued to the ED
This step aims to ensure accountability and prevent similar errors in the future.
Not the First Concern Over Registry Functioning
This is not the first time CJI Surya Kant has raised concerns about the Supreme Court Registry. Earlier, he had indicated the need for a “deeper probe” into the Registry’s functioning, especially regarding how cases are listed before different benches.
He has also previously promised reforms to improve procedural accuracy and transparency.
