Timely justice requires accountability

The Jammu and Kashmir government’s directive to administrative departments and concerned authorities to ensure timely filing of replies, affidavits and compliance reports in pending court cases is an important reminder that respect for the judiciary must translate into action. Government departments cannot afford to treat court deadlines as routine paperwork or judicial directions as matters that can be postponed indefinitely. Delays in submitting records, preparing affidavits or reporting compliance can weaken the government’s representation before courts and tribunals. More importantly, they can obstruct the delivery of justice to citizens who approach courts seeking relief. When departments fail to respond within prescribed timelines, litigants may face prolonged uncertainty, while contempt petitions and adverse judicial orders add to the burden on the legal system. The Law, Justice and Parliamentary Affairs Department has rightly emphasised coordination between administrative departments, Law Officers and Officers In-charge Litigation. Complete records, relevant documents and factual inputs must reach legal representatives well before hearings. Compliance reports should reflect the latest position and be supported by documentary evidence rather than vague assurances. However, issuing instructions alone will not resolve the problem. Departments must establish effective internal monitoring systems, maintain updated records of pending litigation and assign clear responsibility for meeting deadlines. Senior officers should regularly review important cases, particularly contempt petitions involving non-implementation of judicial directions. Early communication between departments and government counsel can prevent avoidable embarrassment and unnecessary legal complications. The warning that responsibility will be fixed for failures is equally significant. Accountability must be enforced fairly and consistently wherever negligence or deliberate delay is established. At the same time, administrative shortcomings should be identified early so that corrective action precedes a court reprimand. Ultimately, government litigation is not merely about defending official positions. It also concerns protecting public resources, ensuring lawful administration and safeguarding citizens’ rights. Timely compliance with court orders strengthens institutional credibility and reinforces the principle that no public authority stands above the law. The real test of this directive will be its implementation. Respect for judicial authority is demonstrated not through circulars, but through timely compliance and responsible governance.