Parliamentary Report: High Court Law Officer Shortage Alarms Law Ministry

A parliamentary committee has raised alarms over the shortage of law officers in high courts, potentially hindering the central government's defense in legal battles. According to the committee's report, only 13 of 25 sanctioned posts for additional solicitors general in high courts are currently filled, leaving 12 vacancies.

The committee emphasizes the need for the Union law ministry to swiftly address these vacancies. It stresses that unoccupied positions might adversely impact the representation of the Union of India in cases involving significant legal questions and public interest. This issue surfaces in their report on demands for grants of the department of legal affairs.

They urge the law ministry to expedite the process of filling these vacancies and regularly review the actual requirements based on litigation complexity. Furthermore, the committee recommends proactive session management and reducing repetitive legal cases to streamline court procedures involving the central government.