A parliamentary committee has flagged the shortage of law officers across high courts to defend the central government in litigation.
The department-related standing committee on law and personnel noted that out of the total 39 sanctioned posts of additional solicitors general of India, all 14 posts earmarked for the Supreme Court are presently filled.
But only 13 out of 25 sanctioned posts for various high courts are filled, leaving 12 posts vacant.
The panel, in its report on demands for grants of the Department of Legal Affairs in the Union Law Ministry said, “The committee is of the view that such vacancies at the level of additional solicitors general in high courts may adversely affect effective representation of the Union of India, particularly in matters involving substantial questions of law and significant public interest,” as per PTI.
Furthermore, the committee has also asked the department to take expeditious steps to fill up the 12 vacant posts of additional solicitors general in high courts in a time-bound manner and periodically review the sanctioned strength vis-a-vis actual requirement, keeping in view the volume and complexity of litigation before different high courts.
A group of law officers led by the attorney general represents the central government in all courts nationwide in litigation. They are assisted in court by a panel of advocates, who also help law officers defend the central government in legal battles, reported PTI.
The parliamentary committee also recommended proactive litigation management, early identification of repetitive and avoidable cases and informed decision-making by ministries/departments to reduce court cases in which the central government is a party.
PM bids farewell to 59 Rajya Sabha members
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday bid farewell to 59 retiring Rajya Sabha members, describing Parliament as an “open university” and urging outgoing legislators to continue contributing to public life beyond their tenure.
Addressing the Upper House during the biennial farewell, PM Modi said such occasions transcend political divisions and bring members together in a shared spirit of respect and reflection.
PM emphasises continued role beyond Parliament
Reassuring members who may not return to Parliament, PM Modi said political life does not end with the completion of a term. “In politics, there is no such thing as a full stop. The future awaits you,” he said, highlighting that their experience will remain valuable to the nation.
He added that the knowledge and exposure gained during a Rajya Sabha tenure equips members to contribute meaningfully in other capacities.