The Government informed Parliament that the Supreme Court of India is currently dealing with a pendency of more than 96,000 cases, highlighting the growing burden on the country's apex judicial institution.
In a written reply in the Rajya Sabha, Union Law Minister Arjun Ram Meghwal stated that over 96,000 matters remain pending before the Supreme Court. Of these, more than 10,000 cases have been awaiting adjudication for over ten years, reflecting the persistent challenge of judicial delays in India.
The disclosure comes amid broader concerns regarding the mounting backlog across the Indian judicial system. According to information provided in Parliament, courts across the country—including the Supreme Court, High Courts, and subordinate courts—are collectively handling more than 5.6 crore pending cases.
The issue of pendency has long been a major concern for policymakers, legal practitioners, litigants, and judicial administrators. Experts have pointed to several factors contributing to delays, including judicial vacancies, increasing litigation, procedural complexities, infrastructure constraints, and the rising volume of appeals reaching higher courts.
Recent data indicates that the Supreme Court's caseload has continued to grow during 2026. Judicial observers have noted that pendency in the apex court crossed 94,000 cases by June 2026, marking one of the highest figures recorded in recent years.
The Government has repeatedly highlighted measures undertaken to address the backlog, including filling judicial vacancies, expanding digital court infrastructure, promoting alternative dispute resolution mechanisms, and implementing reforms under the e-Courts project.
Legal experts argue that reducing pendency is critical for ensuring timely justice and maintaining public confidence in the judicial system. Delays in adjudication can significantly impact litigants, businesses, and governance, making judicial efficiency an important aspect of rule of law and access to justice.
The latest figures disclosed in Parliament are expected to intensify discussions on judicial reforms, case management strategies, and institutional measures aimed at improving the speed and effectiveness of justice delivery in India.