How has the colonial legacy shaped the structure and functioning of India’s judicial institutions? What are its implications for present-day court efficiency? What structural reforms are required in judicial infrastructure?

Topic: Indian Constitution- historical underpinnings, evolution,

Q2. How has the colonial legacy shaped the structure and functioning of India’s judicial institutions? What are its implications for present-day court efficiency? What structural reforms are required in judicial infrastructure? (15 M)

Difficulty Level: Medium

Reference: IE

Why the question
Historical institutional design continues to influence present governance outcomes, especially in justice delivery, and to evaluate the need for structural reforms in line with constitutional ideals.

Key Demand of the question
The question requires linking colonial legacy with current judicial structure and functioning, and explaining its impact on efficiency. It also demands suggesting structural reforms in judicial infrastructure aligned with contemporary needs.

Structure of the Answer:

Introduction
Briefly situate the colonial origins of India’s judiciary and highlight the persistence of legacy structures in modern justice delivery.

Body

  • Colonial legacy shaping judiciary: Indicate how inherited structures and practices continue to define institutional functioning
  • Implications for efficiency: Highlight how these features contribute to delays, inaccessibility and systemic inefficiencies
  • Need for structural reforms: Point towards modernisation through infrastructure, technology and citizen-centric design

Conclusion
Underline the need to transform colonial-era institutions into efficient, accessible and citizen-oriented systems aligned with constitutional values.