The Union Territory of  Jammu and Kashmir has found itself grappling with a pressing administrative issue that threatens to undermine the efficiency and efficacy of its legal processes. The crux of the matter lies in the lack of coordination between Law Officers posted in various departments and the counsels responsible for handling cases before the Supreme Court of India. This gap in communication and collaboration has resulted in significant delays in the filing, re-filing, and verification of Special Leave Petitions and Reply Affidavits, drawing serious concerns from the Government. The Department of Law, Justice and Parliamentary Affairs has observed this unwarranted conduct and issued a stern directive to address the issue.

The directive underscores the critical need for Law Officers to work in close cooperation with the engaged counsels, ensuring timely submission and thorough handling of legal documents. The delays in filing SLPs and Reply Affidavits are not merely procedural lapses; they have far-reaching consequences for the administration of justice. Such delays can lead to unfavourable outcomes for the Government, potentially weakening its position in legal battles. The inefficiency displayed by Law Officers disrupts the legal process, causing setbacks that could otherwise be avoided with better coordination and timely communication. Law Officers, who are entrusted with the responsibility of managing legal matters on behalf of the Government, must understand the gravity of their roles. Their inability to provide prompt assistance and necessary input to the counsels handling the cases is a breach of duty that cannot be overlooked.

The recent directive from the Department of Law, Justice and Parliamentary Affairs, issued by the Law Secretary to the Government, is a much-needed intervention. It clearly outlines the responsibilities of Law Officers at all levels, from administrative to subordinate, emphasising their duty to provide comprehensive and timely information to the engaged counsels. Moreover, the directive mandates the use of modern communication tools, such as designated emails and WhatsApp groups, to facilitate seamless coordination. This approach leverages technology to bridge the communication gap, enabling real-time updates and swift responses. By maintaining a complete record of cases and regularly checking these communication channels, Law Officers can ensure that no detail is overlooked and that the legal processes are executed efficiently.

One of the key aspects of the directive is the emphasis on accountability. The Government has made it clear that any further laxity or delays will invite appropriate action as warranted under the rules. This accountability mechanism is crucial for instilling a sense of responsibility among Law Officers. By holding them accountable for their actions, the Government aims to ensure that they take their duties seriously and prioritize the timely handling of legal matters. The directive also requires Law Officers to furnish regular reports on the status of SLPs and other pleadings, thereby creating a system of continuous monitoring and assessment. This will help identify any bottlenecks in the process and enable timely interventions to address them. The responsibility of coordinating and ensuring the early filing of SLPs and Reply Affidavits lies squarely with the Law Officers, who must stay in close contact with the engaged counsels until the documents are filed.

To translate this directive into tangible results, it is important to cultivate a culture of efficiency and responsiveness within the legal departments. Training programmes should be conducted, and a feedback mechanism can be established where engaged counsels can report on the cooperation and assistance provided by Law Officers. This will help the Department of Law, Justice and Parliamentary Affairs continuously monitor performance and make necessary adjustments to improve efficiency. Law Officers must rise to the occasion, understanding the critical role they play in the administration of justice. It is only through diligent effort, prompt communication, and unwavering commitment to their duties that the legal processes can be executed efficiently, ensuring that the interests of the Government and, ultimately, the public are protected.

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