New Delhi: With over 3 lakh trial cases pending in Delhi’s district courts, more than 42% of sanctioned prosecution posts lying vacant and prosecutors grappling with heavy caseloads, lieutenant governor (LG) TS Sandhu Monday directed Delhi govt’s directorate of prosecution to fast-track trials, minimise avoidable adjournments, ensure timely production of witnesses and closely monitor delays against statutory timelines.Sandhu also called for stricter scrutiny of chargesheets and evidence, analysis of acquittals to identify prosecutorial lapses and greater use of technology to improve justice delivery.The LG chaired a review meeting of directorate of prosecution, which conducts criminal prosecutions on behalf of Delhi govt, along with senior officials.As of Sept 30, 2026, a total of 3,02,477 trial cases were pending in Delhi’s district courts, including 2,54,597 before magistrate courts and 47,880 before sessions courts. The LG has directed authorities to implement trial in absentia provisions in eligible cases to prevent delays caused by absconding accused and promote the use of electronic records, digital case tracking and video conferencing.Expressing concern over low conviction rates, slow disposal of cases and mounting pendency, Sandhu asked officials to take immediate corrective measures.“On accountability, the LG has directed that acquittals be analysed, prosecutorial lapses identified and corrective action taken. Officials informed him that a standing committee reviews acquittal orders in criminal cases to identify lapses in investigation and prosecution. Since Aug 2014, the committee has held 34 meetings, reviewing 64,210 cases. The LG also stressed the need for effective communication with victims and prioritising cases involving women and children,” an official said.Of the 507 sanctioned posts of public prosecutors, additional public prosecutors and assistant public prosecutors, 216 are vacant. Another 42 of 71 sanctioned support staff posts are also lying vacant. While UPSC has advertised 140 assistant public prosecutor posts, the directorate has notified 50 such posts on a contractual basis. In addition, 32 posts of additional public prosecutor are being filled through deputation. Recruitment rules for 40 newly created posts of deputy director and assistant director under BNSS are under submission.The directorate also flagged shortages of courtrooms, prosecutors’ chambers and record rooms.On delays in appointments and inadequate courtroom infrastructure, the LG said he would take up the matter with UPSC and PWD and seek early resolution.The 155 public prosecutors and additional public prosecutors posted in sessions courts handle an average of 309 pending cases each, a figure that rises to 627 in Rohini. Meanwhile, the 126 additional public prosecutors and assistant public prosecutors in magistrate courts handle an average of 2,021 pending cases each, touching 3,065 in Rohini.The LG directed agencies to ensure compliance with BNSS timelines, monitor delays, reduce unnecessary adjournments and secure the timely production of witnesses. He also called for stronger coordination among prosecutors, Delhi Police and forensic laboratories, along with specialised training on new criminal laws, electronic evidence and forensic investigation.
