Lok Sabha Passes Supreme Court (Number of Judges) Amendment Bill, 2026

While increasing the number of judges is a necessary step, legal experts often point out that judicial efficiency is not solely dependent on numerical strength. Infrastructure, the use of technology, and the streamlining of procedural laws are equally critical. Furthermore, the appointment process, governed by the Collegium system, remains a subject of ongoing debate regarding transparency and accountability. As the judiciary expands, the focus must also remain on maintaining the quality of judicial output and ensuring that the process of filling these new vacancies is expedited to realize the intended benefits of this legislative change. UPSC Relevance: This development is highly relevant for GS Paper II, particularly regarding the structure and functioning of the judiciary and the separation of powers. Aspirants can use this as a contemporary example when discussing judicial reforms, the pendency of cases, and the role of Parliament in strengthening constitutional institutions. It connects directly to questions on judicial efficiency and the challenges faced by the Indian legal system in ensuring access to justice.