Chief Justice of India B R Gavai inaugurated the permanent bench building of the Gauhati High Court at Naharlagun, Arunachal Pradesh, on Sunday. The new judicial facility aims to enhance access to justice and strengthen the legal framework in the state and the broader Northeast region.

The inauguration was attended by Union Minister Kiren Rijiju, Union Minister of State for Law and Justice Arjun Ram Meghwal, Gauhati High Court Chief Justice Ashutosh Kumar, along with judges from the Supreme Court and various High Courts.

CJI Gavai emphasized the importance of decentralizing the judiciary to provide timely justice, especially for remote and tribal communities. He also highlighted the role of the judiciary in preserving the tribal heritage of Arunachal Pradesh.

Chief Minister Pema Khandu welcomed the development as a major milestone in the state’s judicial progress. The permanent bench building, spanning over 19,000 square metres, was completed within four years despite logistical challenges, with an investment of nearly ₹250 crore.

Since 2016, Arunachal Pradesh has expanded its judiciary from two courts to 33, along with an increase in judicial personnel and infrastructure. The Chief Minister expressed confidence that the permanent bench would improve case disposal rates and strengthen the rule of law.

Gauhati High Court Chief Justice Ashutosh Kumar described the new building as a “temple of constitutional morality,” reflecting a commitment to delivering “justice without delay.”

The permanent bench includes five modern courtrooms equipped with advanced technology, marking a significant step in improving justice delivery in one of India’s most geographically challenging regions.