Team Blitz India
HIGHLIGHTING the pivotal role of the Supreme Court’s advocate-on-records (AoRs) in ensuring the smooth functioning of the judiciary, Chief Justice of India (CJI) Dhananjaya Y Chandrachud has described the AoRs as the “oil which keeps the machine of the Supreme Court running smoothly”.
Speaking at the inaugural edition of the International Legal Conference organised by the Supreme Court Advocates-on-Record Association (SCAORA) in Goa recently, the CJI emphasised the importance of bar associations such as SCAORA in bridging the gap between litigants and the highest court of the land.
“The bar and the bench are complementary to each other. We are mutual beneficiaries of each other and are here to learn from one another,” said the CJI, praising the system of AoRs and referring to them as vital “custodians of the briefs” and essential stakeholders who contribute significantly to the efficiency and accessibility of the Supreme Court.
The CJI said that AoRs, who have the exclusive right to file cases in the Supreme Court, play a crucial role in ensuring that litigants’ cases are handled properly. CJI Chandrachud stressed that “the efficiency of the Supreme Court depends on the assistance which AoRs provide,” as they not only help manage cases efficiently but also ensure the smooth functioning of the court’s registry by timely and accurate submissions.
Underlining that AoRs further play a crucial role in making the Supreme Court accessible to diverse litigants, including those from remote areas and those unfamiliar with court procedures, the CJI added that despite the increasing use of digital platforms, AoRs are responsible for making the Supreme Court “a friendly experience” for clients, especially those navigating complex legal processes.
On the recent debate surrounding the designation of senior advocates, he clarified that the designation process should be seen as a platform for excellence rather than a benchmark
