Ahmedabad – AAP MLA from Visavadar, Gopal Italia, has called for the establishment of a Gujarat High Court circuit bench in Rajkot and Surat to ease access to justice for citizens across the state. Speaking to the media, Italia highlighted the difficulties faced by lawyers, government officials, and litigants who currently have to travel long distances to Ahmedabad for court proceedings.
“Gujarat is a vast state, stretching from Kutch to Vapi and from Vav to Jhalod. Yet, the principal High Court bench is only in Ahmedabad,” Italia said. “This creates unnecessary financial and logistical burdens for citizens, police, lawyers, and government officials. A Gujarat High Court circuit bench in Rajkot and Surat would reduce travel time and expenses, making justice more accessible to people in Saurashtra and South Gujarat.”
Need for Additional Benches
Italia drew comparisons with other states such as Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan, Tamil Nadu, Uttar Pradesh, and West Bengal, where multiple high court benches operate to ensure easier access to justice. “Just like Mumbai has additional benches in Nagpur, Gujarat too can establish circuit benches in Rajkot and Surat,” he added. The proposed Gujarat High Court circuit bench would allow cases from the Saurashtra region to be heard in Rajkot, and cases from South Gujarat to be heard in Surat, easing the burden on Ahmedabad’s principal bench.
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Advocacy for Local Development of Cultural Sites
In addition to judicial reforms, Italia highlighted the lack of development at the Dhuna of Sant Velnath Bapu in Palasva village, a key cultural and spiritual site for Gujarat’s Kolhi community. Despite the significance of the site, Italia said, the BJP government has not provided infrastructure, visitor amenities, parking, or safety measures. He urged the government to allocate funds for the site’s development where millions are otherwise spent elsewhere. “If millions are spent on other projects, why not develop a site of historical and religious importance like Sant Velnath Bapu’s Dhuna?” Italia asked.
Criticism of Government Spending
Italia also reiterated concerns regarding government expenditure on lawyers for cases like the fixed-salary matter in the Supreme Court. He criticized the government for paying lawyers crores of rupees while employees remain underpaid, calling it a misuse of public funds. Italia emphasized that while the assembly may not discuss every issue due to time constraints, it is the opposition’s responsibility to highlight such matters publicly.
“Establishing a Gujarat High Court circuit bench and ensuring equitable fund allocation for cultural and administrative priorities is vital. Citizens deserve both justice and development in their regions,” Italia concluded.