Future of Tribunalisation in India: Between Efficiency and Constitutionality

Abstract

Tribunals have emerged as an alternative institutional mechanism to traditional courts, aiming to address issues of delay, cost, and procedural complexity. However, the rapid expansion of tribunals in India has sparked critical debates over their constitutional validity and functional independence. This paper explores the evolution of tribunalisation in India, evaluates the constitutional challenges it faces, and critically analyses recent reforms. It further explores whether future tribunalisation can strike a balance between administrative efficiency and constitutional mandates of judicial independence, separation of powers, and access to justice.