The High Court has repeatedly highlighted "crippling" infrastructure shortages.
Seeking UNESCO Nod: Centre Moves on HC’s 20.5 Lakh Sq Ft Expansion Plan
The Punjab and Haryana High Court was informed on Wednesday that the proposal for its holistic development and infrastructure expansion has transitioned to a critical international stage.
According to the report, the Chandigarh Administration and the Government of India have initiated the formal process to include the expansion in the International Management Plan for transmission to UNESCO.
During a resumed hearing before a bench headed by Chief Justice Sheel Nagu, UT senior standing counsel Amit Jhanji submitted that the Chandigarh Heritage Conservation Committee (CHCC) unanimously approved the concept proposal on January 20. This note has now been forwarded to the Fondation Le Corbusier in Paris and the Union Ministry of Culture.
Additional Solicitor-General Satya Pal Jain, appearing for the Union of India, confirmed receipt of the communication and stated the proposal would be forwarded to international bodies, including UNESCO, following mandatory formalities.
The development is significant because the High Court, designed by Le Corbusier, is a UNESCO World Heritage site within the Capitol Complex.
The High Court has repeatedly highlighted "crippling" infrastructure shortages, noting that while there is a sanctioned strength of 85 judges, only 69 courtrooms are functional. Chief Justice Nagu previously observed that this shortage prevents the court from working at full strength. The court has directed the matter be listed for Friday to monitor further compliance.
Source: The Tribune
