Revamping Justice: New Draft Bill for Specialized Commercial Courts

The Union law ministry has introduced a draft Bill proposing amendments to the Commercial Courts Act. It aims to establish dedicated commercial courts at the district level for quicker resolution of disputes. Public feedback is sought for these amendments, which include an extended appeal period and expedited appeal disposal.

The Union law ministry has unveiled a draft Bill aimed at amending the Commercial Courts Act to enhance the judicial process for commercial disputes. A key proposal is the establishment of dedicated commercial courts at the district level. The ministry is soliciting public feedback on these significant amendments.

The draft Bill, titled 'The Commercial Courts (Amendment) Bill, 2024,' proposes modifications to Section 3, empowering state governments to set up as many commercial courts as deemed necessary, in consultation with the high court. This includes the creation of specialized courts dedicated to commercial litigation.

Additionally, the draft legislation offers a 30-day extension for appeals against commercial court decrees. The amended Section 13 allows the Commercial Appellate Court a chance to hear appeals beyond the standard 60 days, given valid reasons. It emphasizes swift disposal of appeals, targeting a six-month resolution timeline from filing.

(With inputs from agencies.)