Ad Hoc Judges Can Sit As Single Judges Or In Division Benches With Sitting Judges: Supreme Court

The Supreme Court has clarified that ad hoc judges appointed under Article 224A of the Constitution may function as single judges or be part of division benches along with sitting High Court judges.

The Court held that it is within the discretion of the Chief Justice of the concerned High Court to constitute such benches and decide which judge will preside.

Modifying its April 2021 directions, the Bench removed the restriction that ad hoc judges must sit only in division benches consisting exclusively of ad hoc judges.

The clarification was issued to address practical difficulties and ensure effective utilisation of ad hoc appointments to reduce High Court pendency.