The Delhi High Court has recently focused its attention on an often-neglected yet essential aspect of court infrastructure — sanitation. On September 1, 2025, Justice Sachin Datta reviewed the progress of ongoing toilet renovation works at the Saket and Dwarka District Court Complexes.
The matter arose from a petition filed by Advocate Smita Kumari Rajgarhia, who highlighted the poor condition of toilets in these complexes. She pointed out that the unhygienic facilities severely affect the dignity and convenience of litigants, lawyers, and court staff.
Taking serious note of the issue, the High Court directed the Public Works Department (PWD) to file regular progress reports and ensure the timely completion of renovation projects.
Background of the Petition
The petition emphasized that thousands of lawyers, court employees, and litigants visit the court premises every day. Poor sanitation facilities, therefore, create significant health and hygiene challenges.
In earlier hearings, the High Court had sought accountability from the PWD, which later submitted detailed status reports on the progress of renovation works. The case highlights a broader concern — that access to justice is closely linked with access to basic amenities.
This petition has opened up an important discussion about improving public infrastructure within the judicial system. It underscores that a dignified and functional environment is essential to the effective delivery of justice.
Renovation Progress at Saket Court Complex
According to the PWD’s latest report, the renovation of toilets in the Lawyers’ Block at Saket began in January 2025. Out of 90 toilets, 18 have already been completed and are now operational.
Work is currently underway on another 27 toilets, including 18 common and 9 all-gender toilets. These are expected to be finished by mid-September 2025. The PWD has reported an overall progress of 47 percent, with full completion targeted for March 2026.
However, in the Main Court Complex at Saket, the renovation work has been slower. The site was handed over to the contractor only in March 2025, though the contract was awarded back in December 2024. Out of 48 toilets, only a few have been completed so far, with the overall progress at just 20 percent.
The department clarified that work is being done in phases so that some toilets remain functional throughout the renovation period. This phased approach is meant to avoid inconvenience to lawyers, litigants, and daily visitors.
Renovation Progress at Dwarka Court Complex
Renovation at the Dwarka District Court Complex has progressed more efficiently than at Saket. In the Court Building (A and B Wings), 9 out of 10 toilets have already been renovated and are fully functional. The remaining one is expected to be completed by the end of September 2025.
In the Lawyers’ Block at Dwarka, 11 of the 16 toilets have been completed, while three are currently under renovation. The final two toilets are scheduled for completion by October 2025.
The PWD has also awarded contracts for the renovation of 36 toilets located in the Administrative and C & D Wings. Work on these sections began in early September 2025 and is expected to conclude by March 2026.
The department has emphasized that renovation work is being carried out in a phased manner to ensure uninterrupted access to sanitation facilities for court users.
Court’s Directions
Justice Sachin Datta stressed that renovation alone would not suffice unless proper maintenance and cleanliness were also ensured. He observed that hygiene and upkeep are equally important aspects of public infrastructure.
Accordingly, the Court directed the PWD to file a fresh status report within eight weeks. The report must not only cover Saket and Dwarka Courts but also extend to other district court complexes across Delhi.
The Court also instructed the department to maintain sanitation standards during the ongoing renovation process. Additionally, Bar Associations were asked to submit their own reports to assist in monitoring the situation.
Looking Ahead
The next hearing in the matter has been scheduled for December 11, 2025. By then, the High Court expects substantial progress in the renovation works. Accountability is to be fixed upon both the PWD and the concerned Bar Associations.
This ongoing judicial monitoring highlights the recognition that court infrastructure is inseparable from the quality of justice delivery. Sanitation, though basic, remains fundamental to ensuring access to justice with dignity.
The case sets a valuable precedent for judicial oversight in infrastructural issues that directly impact everyday users of the court system. Law Daily will continue to follow this matter and report on whether the PWD fulfills its commitments by the next hearing.
