Supreme Court Facing Critical Capacity Crisis: Analysis Proposes Structural Reforms

India's Supreme Court is grappling with a severe capacity crisis, with approximately 35,000 cases filed in the first five months of 2026 alone—matching previously annual volumes. A significant portion involves matrimonial transfer petitions and bail applications, leaving limited time for constitutional interpretation and important legal matters.

An analysis identifies four structural concerns requiring urgent attention: establishment of a dedicated Constitutional Division, improved screening of Special Leave Petitions under Articles 134-A and 136, enhanced case management transparency, and addressing institutional consequences of inconsistent judicial pronouncements on legal precedent.

Without intervention, the Supreme Court risks becoming merely another appellate tier rather than India's apex constitutional authority. The current litigation volume—encompassing routine matrimonial disputes, case transfers, and bail reviews—diverts judicial resources from substantive constitutional questions the court was designed to address.