August 3, 2025

The Bombay High Court has announced the establishment of a new bench in Kolhapur, western Maharashtra, which is scheduled to commence sittings on August 18, 2025. This new bench is set to be the state's fourth HC bench, aiming to ease the burden on litigants and lawyers who currently need to travel approximately 380 kilometers to Mumbai for court hearings. The official notification for this development was issued by Chief Justice Alok Aradhe, supported by the Governor of Maharashtra, solidifying Kolhapur's designation as an official location for High Court judges and division courts. Currently, the Bombay High Court has its principal bench located in Mumbai, along with additional benches in Nagpur and Aurangabad. There is also a bench in the neighboring state of Goa. Given the geographical vastness of Maharashtra, many stakeholders in the legal community have long requested the establishment of a bench in Kolhapur, highlighting the challenges faced by litigants who travel significant distances for court access. The new Kolhapur bench is expected to cover six districts: Satara, Sangli, Solapur, Kolhapur, Ratnagiri, and Sindhudurg, thereby significantly increasing the accessibility of legal services to residents in these regions. Notably, Chief Justice of India B. R. Gavai expressed support for the establishment of the Kolhapur bench, indicating the importance of regional access to judicial proceedings. The Chief Minister of Maharashtra, Devendra Fadnavis, celebrated this announcement via social media, emphasizing the long-standing demand for a bench in Kolhapur, which he has pursued since taking office. Fadnavis described the establishment of the court as a "historic development," noting its potential to improve efficiency and accessibility in the judiciary. The Chief Minister underscored that this new judicial presence would alleviate the cost and effort associated with long-distance travel for legal counsel and litigants alike. He expressed gratitude towards Chief Justice Gavai and Chief Justice Aradhe for supporting this crucial initiative. Fadnavis remarked, "This will make justice more accessible and efficient, while saving citizens' time, effort, and money," highlighting the positive implications for both legal professionals and the public in the western region of Maharashtra. He believes that establishing the Kolhapur bench will significantly improve the judicial experience and accessibility for the local population, catering to the legal needs that have been unmet for years. As preparations for the new bench continue, officials are expected to finalize the roster of judges who will handle cases in Kolhapur. This initiative aims not only to distribute the workload of the existing benches but also to bolster the confidence of the residents in the legal system by providing them with direct access to court facilities closer to home. In summary, the establishment of the Kolhapur bench by the Bombay High Court marks a pivotal moment in improving the delivery and accessibility of justice in Maharashtra. With backing from legal authorities and government officials, this new bench stands to make a significant impact on the regional legal landscape, fostering greater trust and dependence on the judiciary for those living in these six districts. As the opening date approaches, anticipation builds among lawyers and citizens alike for a more responsive and effective legal framework that serves their needs.

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Tags: Bombay high court, Kolhapur, Judicial bench, Maharashtra, Justice accessibility,