New tribunal reforms Bill may be introduced in monsoon session of parliament: Centre to Supreme Court

The Indian government has informed the Supreme Court that a new bill to regulate tribunals is in its final stages of drafting and may be introduced during the ongoing monsoon session of parliament. The proposed legislation aims to reform the functioning of tribunals, which have been plagued by vacancies and inefficiencies. The court had earlier directed the government to frame a uniform proposal on tribunal functioning, highlighting the need for these bodies to remain operational.

The Supreme Court of India has been grappling with issues related to the functioning of tribunals in the country. In November 2025, a Bench of the then CJI BR Gavai and Justice Vinod Chandran struck down provisions of the Tribunals Reforms Act, 2021 on appointment and tenure of tribunal members, citing violations of earlier judgments. The court's ruling highlighted the need for reform in the tribunals' functioning. In this context, the Union government has informed the Supreme Court that a new bill to regulate tribunals is in its final stages of drafting.

The Tribunals Reforms Act, 2021 was enacted with the intention of streamlining the appointment and tenure of tribunal members. However, the Supreme Court's November 2025 ruling struck down these provisions, citing violations of earlier judgments. The court had emphasized that tribunals cannot be allowed to become defunct and directed the Union government to constitute a National Tribunal Policy. The proposed legislation aims to address the issues plaguing the tribunals and ensure their effective functioning.

The proposed legislation has significant implications for the functioning of tribunals in India. If implemented effectively, it could lead to improved efficiency and effectiveness in these bodies. However, the exact impact of the bill will depend on various factors, including its scope, provisions, and implementation. The court's ongoing monitoring of the government's efforts to reform the tribunal system highlights the importance of ensuring that these bodies remain operational and effective.

The proposed legislation is a step towards addressing the issues plaguing the tribunal system, but its success will depend on various factors, including its scope, provisions, and implementation. Practitioners should be prepared to adapt to any changes that may arise from this new legislation and continue to advocate for effective governance and administration in these bodies.