Introduction

• The Calcutta High Court stands as an emblem of legal prowess and historical significance in the Indian judiciary.
• Established in 1862, it serves as the oldest High Court in India and holds a paramount position in the legal landscape of the country, particularly in the eastern region.
• Through its rich history, notable cases, architectural marvel, and evolving role in modern India, the Calcutta High Court continues to shape the legal discourse and uphold the principles of justice.

What is the Historical Background of Calcutta High Court?

• The Calcutta High Court, one of India's three High Courts established in the Presidency Towns through Letters patent issued by Queen Victoria on 26th June 1862, holds the distinction of being India's oldest High Court.
• Initially designated as the High Court of Judicature at Fort William on 1st July 1862, under the High Courts Act of 1861, it succeeded the Supreme Court of Judicature at Fort William.
• Despite the official change of the city's name from Calcutta to Kolkata in 2001, the institution retained its original name.
• Although a bill proposing its renaming to Kolkata High Court, along with its Chennai and Mumbai counterparts, was endorsed by the Cabinet on 5th July 2016, the High Court continues to be known by its former title.

How is Architectural Marvel of Calcutta High Court?

• The architectural grandeur of the Calcutta High Court is a sight to behold.
• The High Court building's design is based on the Cloth Hall, Ypres, in Belgium.
• Designed by Walter Granville, the building seamlessly blends elements of European and Mughal architecture, showcasing intricate domes, majestic pillars, and ornate interiors.
• Its imposing facade and majestic dome symbolize the authority and dignity associated with the judiciary, earning it a place among the architectural wonders of Kolkata.

What are Legal Jurisdictions of Calcutta High Court?

• As the highest judicial authority in West Bengal and the Union Territory of Andaman and Nicobar Islands, the Calcutta High Court holds jurisdiction over a vast geographical area.
• According to the Calcutta High Court (Extension of Jurisdiction) Act of 1953, the jurisdiction of the Calcutta High Court was expanded to include Chandernagore (now known as Chandannagar) and the Andaman and Nicobar Islands starting from May 2, 1950.
• Furthermore, the Calcutta High Court established additional Circuit Benches in Port Blair, the capital of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, and in Jalpaiguri, the headquarters of the Jalpaiguri division in West Bengal.
• It hears a diverse range of cases, including civil, criminal, constitutional, and administrative matters, thereby playing a pivotal role in upholding the rule of law and safeguarding the rights of citizens across the region.

How is the Composition of Calcutta High Court?

• Barnes Peacock became the first Chief Justice of the High Court upon its establishment on 1 July 1862.
• Following him, Romesh Chandra Mitter served as the first Indian acting Chief Justice, while Phani Bhushan Chakravartti became the first Indian to hold the position permanently.
• Sankar Prasad Mitra holds the record for the longest tenure as Chief Justice of Calcutta High Court.
• The court has a sanctioned judge strength of 72.

What does Letter Patent refer to in Terms of Calcutta High Court?

• The Calcutta High Court, like many high courts in India, operates under a Letters Patent.
• The term "Letters Patent" refers to a type of legal instrument or document issued by a monarch or government, granting certain rights, privileges, or powers.
• In the context of the Indian judiciary, the term "Letters Patent" refers specifically to the document that establishes and defines the jurisdiction, powers, and rules of a high court.