The Delhi High Court has taken a firm stance on the delayed approval of enhanced monthly remuneration for Law Researchers (LRs) attached to the court. A division bench comprising Justice Prathiba M. Singh and Justice Rajneesh Kumar Gupta issued a notice to the Government of NCT of Delhi (GNCTD), urging it to expedite its decision on increasing the LRs' remuneration from Rs. 65,000 to Rs. 80,000 per month.
Background of the Case
The petition was filed by 13 Law Researchers who were engaged by the Delhi High Court. They sought the implementation of a directive issued by the Acting Chief Justice on August 16, 2023, which approved the enhancement of their monthly remuneration with effect from October 1, 2022. The petitioners highlighted that despite the approval from a Committee of High Court Judges and the Acting Chief Justice, the Delhi Government had not yet sanctioned the increase.
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The remuneration of LRs has seen periodic revisions over the years:
- In 2017, it was increased from Rs. 25,000 to Rs. 35,000.
- In 2018, a further hike to Rs. 50,000 was proposed but remained pending for years.
- By 2019, the amount was revised to Rs. 65,000, which was finally sanctioned in November 2021.
The bench noted the critical role played by Law Researchers in assisting judges. They prepare case briefs, conduct legal research, and stay updated with the latest legal developments. Due to the heavy workload, LRs often work late hours, weekends, and holidays.
“Owing to the quantum of work that Judges have to deal with on a daily basis, Law Researchers are also required to stay late hours every day and usually work on weekends and holidays. Prima facie, the Delhi Government ought to consider the approved enhancement by the Court and take a decision in an expedited manner,” the bench observed.
The petitioners argued that the delay in approving the enhanced remuneration was unjust. They emphasized that the proposal had been pending for nearly two years, causing financial hardship. They also sought arrears and interest at 18% per annum for the delayed payments.
During the hearing, the counsels for the respondents pointed out errors in the memo of parties. The court directed the GNCTD to be impleaded through the Law Secretary and Finance Secretary, while the Union of India was to be represented by the Secretary, Ministry of Law and Justice.
The court has asked the GNCTD and the Union of India to file their affidavits and listed the matter for further hearing on August 21, 2025. The case will be treated as part-heard.
Title: RUSHANT MALHOTRA & ORS v. THE GOVERNMENT OF NCT OF DELHI & ORS