Tamil Nadu CM Vijay Appeals to PM Modi for Supreme Court Bench in Chennai
In a letter dated November 4, 2026, Tamil Nadu's Chief Minister urges the establishment of a Supreme Court Bench in Chennai to ease access for southern litigants.
CM Vijay emphasizes the long-standing demand for a Supreme Court Bench in Chennai, first proposed in 1980.
The Chief Minister cites Article 130 of the Constitution, allowing the Supreme Court to sit in locations other than Delhi.
Establishing a Bench in Chennai would enhance legal access for citizens in southern India, addressing geographical and financial barriers.
On November 4, 2026, Tamil Nadu Chief Minister C. Joseph Vijay formally requested Prime Minister Narendra Modi to take action towards establishing a Supreme Court Bench in Chennai. In his letter, Vijay highlighted that this demand has been pending since 1980, primarily due to the challenges faced by litigants from southern states who must travel to New Delhi for legal proceedings.
Vijay referenced Article 130 of the Indian Constitution, which permits the Supreme Court to convene in locations other than Delhi, contingent on the Chief Justice's approval. He noted that the establishment of a Bench in Chennai would significantly benefit the southern states, given its status as a major urban center. Furthermore, he pointed out the capabilities of the Madras High Court Bar and its historical significance as one of India's oldest High Courts, founded in 1862.
The Chief Minister recalled a resolution from the Supreme Court's Full Court on August 7, 2007, which indicated no justification for deviating from previous decisions regarding the Bench's establishment, despite assurances from the Tamil Nadu government to provide necessary infrastructure for judges. He stressed that the original intent of the Constitution was to ensure all citizens, regardless of their economic status, have direct access to the courts, a principle enshrined in Article 32.
Vijay articulated that the geographical distance from southern states to the Supreme Court in Delhi has effectively restricted access to legal remedies for many citizens, particularly those who are economically disadvantaged. He also reminded the Prime Minister of a significant legal question regarding the establishment of a Supreme Court Bench, which was referred to a Constitution Bench in a 2016 case.
In conclusion, CM Vijay expressed optimism that PM Modi would advocate for a reconsideration of this issue by the Supreme Court, emphasizing the importance of Chennai as a regional hub. He argued that establishing a Bench in Chennai would not only fulfill a long-standing demand but also reflect the federal character of India, as supported by various Law Commission reports advocating for regional Benches without compromising judicial independence.
