The Andhra Pradesh government has taken a crucial step toward setting up a permanent High Court bench in Kurnool, fulfilling a long-standing commitment. In a significant development, the High Court has sent an official letter to the Kurnool District Collector, seeking comprehensive details about the infrastructure and amenities required for 15 judges. Responding swiftly, the district administration has identified potential locations and put forward proposals for suitable buildings. To facilitate the process, a special committee comprising senior judges has been formed to evaluate the feasibility of these proposals.
Progress in Kurnool High Court Bench Setup
Efforts are well underway to establish the High Court bench in Kurnool. Following the High Court’s directive, the district administration has begun assessing essential facilities, including judicial accommodations and operational infrastructure. The District Collector has instructed relevant departments to compile a detailed report, ensuring that all necessary arrangements meet the prescribed standards. Senior officials are actively reviewing potential sites to determine their suitability for the judiciary.
Identified Locations for the High Court Bench
Among the top contenders for the High Court bench is the newly built Andhra Pradesh Electricity Regulatory Commission complex in Dinnedivarapadu, situated on the outskirts of Kurnool. This ultra-modern facility, constructed last year at a cost of approximately ₹25 crores, features four expansive halls and multiple dedicated chambers, making it a strong candidate for judicial use. Additionally, an adjoining guest house equipped with four suite rooms is available for official accommodations.
Other options under review include 50 vacant rooms within a private engineering college in B. Tandrapadu and the administrative block of the Silver Jubilee College cluster university campus. Authorities are carefully analyzing these alternatives to determine the most viable location for the new High Court bench.
High-Level Committee to Oversee the Process
To ensure a smooth and efficient transition, Chief Justice Dhiraj Singh Thakur has appointed a high-level committee comprising senior judges, including Justice Ravinath Tilhari, Justice R. Raghunandan Rao, Justice N. Jayasurya, and Justice B. Krishna Mohan. This panel will meticulously examine the proposals submitted by the Kurnool district administration. If deemed feasible, the next phase of implementation will proceed without delay.
The Andhra Pradesh state cabinet has already passed a resolution in favor of the Kurnool High Court bench, reinforcing its commitment to decentralizing judicial services. Once the necessary accommodations and operational logistics are finalized, an official announcement is expected, paving the way for the bench’s establishment in the near future.