New Delhi: Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Science and Technology; Earth Sciences and Minister of State for PMO, Department of Atomic Energy, Department of Space, Personnel, Public Grievances and Pensions, Dr. Jitendra Singh, in his address at the 10th All India Conference of the Central Administrative Tribunal (CAT) held at Bharat Mandapam on September 20, 2025, emphasized the urgent need to reduce avoidable appeals in High Courts and ensure that CAT fulfills its fundamental mandate.
Strengthening CAT’s Role in Reducing Litigation Backlog
Dr. Singh highlighted that CAT, established under Article 323-A of the Constitution in 1985, was intended to provide speedy and inexpensive justice to government employees and pensioners while easing the burden of service-related litigation on High Courts. He noted with satisfaction that under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership, all vacancies in CAT have been filled, enabling it to function at full strength. The pressing challenge now lies in clearing pending cases promptly using modernized case management systems.
Call for Judiciary’s Proactive Participation
The Minister urged members of the judiciary to voluntarily undertake assignments at CAT, emphasizing their role “in the interest of administration of justice and in the service of the nation.” He pointed out that hesitation in accepting such roles in the past had led to amendments allowing administrative members to preside over benches in the absence of judicial members.
Embracing Technology and AI in Judicial Processes
Dr. Singh highlighted notable advancements such as e-filing, digitization of records, and virtual hearings, which have ensured judicial continuity during the pandemic. He announced plans to integrate AI-powered case management systems into CAT to facilitate faster, more consistent adjudication without compromising judicial independence. Further, he proposed performance benchmarking for CAT benches based on parameters including disposal rates, pendency reduction, technology use, and litigant satisfaction to foster best practice sharing and transparency.
Infrastructure and Commitment to Justice Delivery
The Government’s commitment is evident from the provision of dedicated premises for most CAT benches alongside progressive steps to enhance infrastructure and manpower. Dr. Singh stressed that while technological and resource support can be provided by the government, the integrity and service mindset of justice providers remain crucial.
Perspectives From Judicial and Government Officials
Chief Justice of India, Justice B.R. Gavai, in his inaugural address, underlined CAT’s vital role in easing access to justice and mitigating higher courts’ litigation load. He advocated setting up nodal offices in government departments for case review prior to litigation and recommended employing AI for case categorization and multi-language judgment translation. He also proposed creating a National Database for Tribunals.
Justice Ranjit More, Chairman of CAT, elaborated on CAT’s unique purpose distinct from regular courts, emphasizing its expansion and vision to deliver justice at litigants’ doorsteps. Union Law Minister Arjun Ram Meghwal cautioned against repetitive appeals that delay justice and advocated for digital case management reforms. Attorney General R. Venkataramani lauded the evolution of CAT, emphasizing the importance of quality appointments and capacity-building workshops.
Conclusion of Central Administrative Tribunal
The conference highlighted the collective responsibility to uphold CAT’s original mandate by reducing avoidable litigation, enhancing judicial efficiency through technology, and fostering accountability and transparency. These efforts are integral to delivering timely justice and maintaining public trust in administrative adjudication frameworks.
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Source: PIB
