The High Court of Chhattisgarh at Bilaspur — the 19th High Court of India — holds the distinction ofbeing among the newest entrants to the distinguished list of superior courts of the Republic of India. It was established on November 1, 2000, with the creation of the new state of Chhattisgarh upon the reorganisation of Madhya Pradesh under the Madhya Pradesh Reorganisation Act, 2000. Born simultaneously with the new state itself, the Chhattisgarh High Court has, in its relatively short history of 25 years, built an institutional identity rooted in constitutional commitment, digital modernisation, and access to justice for a state whose geography encompasses vast forests, tribal communities, and one of India’s most mineral-rich territories.
History
The Chhattisgarh High Court was inaugurated by Justice B.N. Kirpal, Judge of the Supreme Court of India, on November 1, 2000, in the presence of Mr. Arun Jaitley, Union Minister of State for Law and Justice and Company Affairs, Justice Bhawani Singh, Chief Justice of High Court of Madhya Pradesh, and Justice R.S. Garg, the first Acting Chief Justice of the High Court of Chhattisgarh at Bilaspur.
The court commenced operations with just two judges — a remarkably modest beginning from which it has grown progressively to its current sanctioned strength. Its jurisdiction covers all districts of Chhattisgarh — a state spanning 135,192 square kilometres with a population of over 30 million, including significant tribal communities in the Bastar and Surguja regions.
The court handles an annual caseload surpassing 100,000 matters and has integrated digital initiatives including virtual courts, e-filing, and online case management to enhance accessibility and efficiency. Virtual hearings introduced post-2020 and logistical support have helped mitigate access issues for litigants from remote and Naxal-affected regions who face distances exceeding 400 kilometres from areas like Bastar to reach Bilaspur.
Structure and Composition
| Dimension | Detail |
| Established | November 1, 2000 |
| Inaugurated by | Justice B.N. Kirpal — Supreme Court of India |
| First Acting Chief Justice | Justice R.S. Garg |
| Location | Village Bodri, Bilaspur, Chhattisgarh |
| Sanctioned judge strength | 22 judges (17 Permanent + 5 Additional) |
| Working strength (2025) | 14 judges |
| Jurisdiction | Entire state of Chhattisgarh — 33 districts |
| Benches outside Bilaspur | None — single principal seat |
| Bar Association | Chhattisgarh High Court Bar Association — approximately 2,400 members |
| Annual case load | Over 100,000 matters |
Architecture
The High Court at Chhattisgarh was designed as a building that embodies the ideals of justice and integrity. A symmetrical plan culminating in a central dome emphasises the power and grandeur of the building, created to bring justice to the people of the land. The symmetry and order in the planning reflect the qualities of an organised system and the equality with which the court is conducted. Tremendous care was taken for the comfort of the public by providing waiting areas with ample natural light, an open plan with courtyards, and green spaces ideal for the climate of the region. A simple and distinctive circulation system was planned, segregating the entrances for judges, advocates, court staff, and the public, with separate and secure entrances and exits planned for high-security convicts. The new building is situated in Bilaspur at Bodri — a purpose-built modern complex that reflects the aspirations of a new state investing in contemporary judicial infrastructure from its inception.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: When was the Chhattisgarh High Court established?
A: November 1, 2000 — simultaneously with the formation of Chhattisgarh state.
Q: Where is it located?
A: At Village Bodri, Bilaspur, Chhattisgarh — 495220.
Q: Who was the first Acting Chief Justice?
A: Justice R.S. Garg was the first Acting Chief Justice.
Q: What is the sanctioned judge strength?
A: 22 judges — 17 permanent and 5 additional. Currently 14 judges are working.
Q: Is the Chhattisgarh High Court the 19th High Court of India?
A: Yes. It is officially recorded as the 19th High Court of India.
Q: Does the court have benches in other cities?
A: No. It operates from a single principal seat at Bilaspur.
Q: What digital initiatives has the court adopted?
A: Virtual courts, e-filing, online case management, and video conferencing for remote litigants.
