New Delhi: The Supreme Court of India has commenced its annual six-week summer vacation from June 1, renewing debate over judicial delays as more than 53 million cases remain pending across courts nationwide.

During the vacation period, the apex court will continue to hear urgent matters through designated vacation benches. However, only a limited number of judges will be available for hearings, meaning the court will function at a fraction of its full strength until regular sittings resume in mid-July.

The vacation comes at a time when concerns over India’s mounting judicial backlog are intensifying. According to data from the National Judicial Data Grid, pending cases across the country’s courts have crossed 53 million, highlighting the immense pressure on the justice delivery system.

The annual break has once again sparked discussion among legal experts, policymakers, and the public. Critics argue that extended court vacations may no longer be suitable given the scale of pending litigation and the delays faced by millions of litigants seeking justice.

Supporters of the existing system, however, contend that judges use the vacation period for research, writing judgments, reviewing case records, and carrying out administrative responsibilities that are difficult to manage during regular court sessions.

While urgent cases will continue to be heard by vacation benches, most matters are expected to await the reopening of the court. The Supreme Court is scheduled to resume its normal functioning in mid-July.

The issue has reignited a broader conversation on judicial reforms, court infrastructure, and measures needed to address the growing backlog of cases across India’s legal system.