Mon Aug 18 07:44:28 UTC 2025: Okay, here’s a summary and news article based on the provided text:
**Summary:**
The Madras High Court in Tamil Nadu and Puducherry has initiated a proactive measure to address the backlog of criminal cases pending in courts for over three years. The Court has taken up two *suo motu* writ petitions to identify and expedite the disposal of cases involving offenses punishable by up to three years, including cases of criminal intimidation. The Court will focus on utilizing methods like compounding, Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR), and potential withdrawal of prosecution to speed up the process and safeguard the right to a speedy trial. They will prioritize compoundable cases and will also address cases arising from private complaints. The ultimate aim is to streamline the administration of criminal justice.
**News Article:**
**Madras High Court Launches Initiative to Clear Criminal Case Backlog**
**CHENNAI, August 18, 2025** – The Madras High Court has announced a major initiative aimed at tackling the significant backlog of criminal cases clogging the judicial system in Tamil Nadu and Puducherry. The Court has taken up two *suo motu* writ petitions to identify and expedite the disposal of cases pending for over three years, involving offenses punishable by up to three years’ imprisonment.
Chief Justice Manindra Mohan Shrivastava has assigned the cases to Justice D. Bharatha Chakravarthy at the principal seat in Chennai and Justice K.K. Ramakrishnan at the Madurai Bench.
The initiative will also include cases involving criminal intimidation, even if the potential punishment exceeds three years. Justice Chakravarthy has urged legal professionals, police, and litigants to bring relevant cases to the Court’s attention.
The High Court plans to utilize a multi-pronged approach, prioritizing compoundable cases for resolution through direct negotiations and Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) methods. The possibility of compromise will be considered even in non-compoundable cases, and the Court will consider recommending the withdrawal of prosecutions where appropriate. In cases facing undue delays, the Court may also consider quashing the charges to ensure the constitutional right to a speedy trial. Cases originating from private complaints, such as those under the Negotiable Instruments Act of 1881, will also receive focused attention.
“The goal is to reduce the clogs in the wheels of the administration of criminal justice thereby ensuring proper case flow and availability of quality time for the trial of appropriate cases,” explained Justice Chakravarthy.
The move is expected to significantly alleviate the burden on the lower courts and contribute to a more efficient and timely judicial process.
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