The Supreme Court said that the practice of adjournments being sought by lawyers who come to court without preparation to argue obstructs Justice.
A Bench comprising of Justices DY Chandrachud and Justice Hima Kohli said that such practice is delaying justice delivery.
The statement was given by the bench after the advocate of an person who has been in jail for 11 years asked for an adjournment citing the absence of the arguing counsel.
Justice Chandrachud said to the lawyer to read the papers [of the case]. Sometimes lawyers are only obstructing justice. We read briefs and hear till 5 pm, you cannot read in 5 minutes and argue your case.
The Bench was hearing the case of an 81-year-old seeking remission of sentence.
The Court gave a final order after listening to the respondent and noting their submissions.
Justice Chandrachud, who would soon be taking over the charges of the next CJI had previously said that the Supreme Court will make all efforts to change its image as a court which frequently adjourns cases.
The Apex Court in August, had called for a change in the way lawyers work and had asked them to realise the value of time .
The Judge said that we have to change the style of working in the Supreme Court. Judges read briefs and then lawyers don’t argue … Lawyers complain that matters are not listed, but seek adjournment when their cases come up.
The Bench said that under no pretext other than the COVID-19 or a bereavement in the family, adjournment can be sought.