Push for Establishing High Court Bench in Kurnool Gains Momentum

Keywords: Kurnool High Court Bench, Judicial Capital, Rayalaseema, Andhra Pradesh, N. Md. Farooq, Legal Access, Waqf Board Reorganization.

Introduction

In a renewed effort to decentralize judicial services and ensure better access to justice for the people of Rayalaseema, Minister of Law and Justice, and Minority Welfare N. Md. Farooq has directed officials to expedite the establishment of a High Court Bench in Kurnool. This move aligns with the state government’s election promise and has rekindled hope for residents of the region, who have long sought closer access to legal services.

Directive to Expedite the Process

During a meeting on December 4, 2024, Mr. Farooq instructed G. Pratibha Devi, the newly appointed Secretary (Legal, Legislative Affairs, and Justice), to prepare a detailed action plan for the early establishment of the High Court Bench. He stressed the importance of fulfilling the government’s commitment, citing the Legislative Assembly and Council’s prior resolutions supporting the initiative.

The Minister noted that while the previous administration had declared Kurnool as the “judicial capital,” it failed to take concrete steps to implement the plan. Mr. Farooq emphasized that this delay hindered legal accessibility for Rayalaseema residents, many of whom face logistical and financial challenges in traveling to the current High Court in Amaravati.

Implications for Rayalaseema

The establishment of a High Court Bench in Kurnool promises:

1. Improved Access to Justice: Legal services will become more accessible for Rayalaseema residents, reducing travel time and expenses.
2. Balanced Judicial Infrastructure: It contributes to the decentralization of judicial resources across the state.
3. Fulfillment of Public Aspirations: The move honors the long-standing demand of the region’s citizens and political leaders.

Other Key Discussions

In addition to the High Court Bench, Mr. Farooq held discussions with Secretary Pratibha Devi and Minority Welfare Commissioner Ch. Sridhar on other pressing matters, including:

• Reorganization of the Waqf Board: Steps to streamline its functioning and address governance issues.
• Departmental Reforms: Strategies to improve the effectiveness of the Ministry of Minority Welfare and Justice.

Next Steps

The Minister has tasked the legal department with fast-tracking the establishment process by preparing a comprehensive roadmap. This includes coordination with the judiciary and obtaining necessary approvals from the High Court and Central Government.

Conclusion

The push for a High Court Bench in Kurnool marks a significant step toward ensuring judicial decentralization and equitable access to legal services in Andhra Pradesh. As the state gears up for the upcoming general elections, the timely implementation of this initiative will not only fulfill a long-standing promise but also enhance the region’s socio-legal infrastructure.

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