Mandatory Timelines for Oral Arguments to Streamline Hearings: SC Issues Circular

The Supreme Court of India has issued a circular laying down a Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) for adherence to timelines in oral arguments. The circular, issued on December 29, 2025, has come into force with immediate effect. 

Objective Behind the Circular

The SOP has been introduced to facilitate effective court management, ensure equitable distribution of court working hours, and strengthen the speedy and proper administration of justice. The directions have been issued under the authority of the Chief Justice of India and all the Judges of the Supreme Court, reflecting an institutional push towards disciplined and time-bound hearings.

Advance Submission of Oral Argument Timelines

As per the circular, Senior Advocates, arguing counsel, and/or Advocates-on-Record (AoR) are now required to submit the proposed timelines for their oral arguments at least one day prior to the commencement of the hearing in all post-notice and regular hearing matters.

These timelines must be submitted through the existing online portal used for filing Appearance Slips, ensuring digital tracking and uniform compliance.

Mandatory Written Submissions Limited to 5 Pages

To further streamline hearings, the Supreme Court has mandated that arguing counsel and/or Senior Advocates must file a brief note or written submission not exceeding five pages.

This written submission must:

• Be filed at least three days prior to the date of hearing,
• Be served in advance on the opposite party, and
• Be submitted either through the Advocate-on-Record or any Nodal Counsel nominated by the Court, where applicable
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The move is aimed at ensuring that the Bench is adequately assisted in advance, reducing repetitive oral submissions and unnecessary prolongation of hearings.

Strict Adherence to Fixed Timelines

The circular clearly emphasizes that all counsel must strictly adhere to the timelines fixed by the Court and conclude their oral arguments within the allotted time. This underscores the Supreme Court’s resolve to curb delays caused by extended arguments and to promote judicial efficiency without compromising on fairness 

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