The Delhi High Court is one of the prominent High Courts in India, known for its jurisdiction over the National Capital Territory (NCT) of Delhi. It was established to address the growing judicial needs of the capital region and plays a crucial role in India’s legal system. Here’s an overview:

Overview of the Delhi High Court

  1. Establishment
    The Delhi High Court was established on October 31, 1966, under the Delhi High Court Act, 1966. Before its establishment, the Punjab High Court exercised jurisdiction over Delhi.

  2. Location
    The Court is located on Sher Shah Road, near India Gate, in New Delhi.

  3. Composition

    • The High Court consists of a Chief Justice and other judges as appointed by the President of India under Article 217 of the Constitution.
    • Judges are selected based on their expertise, merit, and recommendations from the Collegium System.

  4. Jurisdiction
    The Delhi High Court exercises jurisdiction in:

    • Original Jurisdiction:
      It has original jurisdiction in civil cases involving disputes above a specified monetary value. It also handles writ petitions under Articles 226 and 227 of the Constitution.
    • Appellate Jurisdiction:
      Appeals from lower courts and tribunals in Delhi come under its purview.
    • Special Jurisdiction:
      The Delhi High Court handles specific cases related to intellectual property, company laws, and taxation.
      It is also a designated court for matters related to public sector undertakings, given the presence of numerous such entities in Delhi.

  5. Specialization
    The Delhi High Court is a leader in handling intellectual property (IP) cases, becoming a hub for disputes related to patents, trademarks, and copyrights due to Delhi’s commercial significance.

  6. PILs and Social Impact
    The Court plays a critical role in addressing issues of public importance through Public Interest Litigations (PILs). Many landmark decisions have stemmed from PILs filed in the Delhi High Court.

  7. Digital Advancements

    • The Delhi High Court has embraced technology by introducing e-filing systems, virtual hearings, and a digital repository of judgments.
    • It was among the first courts in India to live-stream proceedings, enhancing transparency.

  8. Notable Cases
    Some landmark judgments delivered by the Delhi High Court include:

    • Naz Foundation v. Government of NCT of Delhi (2009): Decriminalized homosexuality under Section 377 of the IPC, a decision later upheld partially by the Supreme Court.
    • Common Cause v. Union of India (1996): Advocated for transparency in governance and accountability of public officials.
    • Intellectual property cases involving global corporations and significant commercial disputes.

  9. Court Benches and Divisions
    The High Court operates through single-judge benches and division benches (comprising two judges) depending on the nature and importance of cases.

  10. Subordinate Courts
    The Delhi High Court oversees the functioning of subordinate courts, including district and sessions courts, within the NCT of Delhi.

Significance

The Delhi High Court holds a unique position due to its jurisdiction over the national capital, where major governmental, commercial, and international activities converge. It serves as a vital institution in delivering justice, interpreting laws, and shaping the legal landscape of the country.