ThePrint ThePrintOpinion: We blame the government for being too litigious. Data tells a different story
Nov 19, 2025
Pavithra Manivannan, a researcher at XKDR Forum & The Professeer, delves into the complexities of government litigation. She reveals that government cases actually make up a smaller percentage of commercial disputes than commonly believed. Contrary to assumptions, the government initiates less than 20% of cases in Bombay. Pavithra also discusses how government disputes resolve faster than non-government cases and highlights the need for improved contract management and grievance systems to further reduce litigation.
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Government Cases Are A Small Slice
- Government litigation forms a small share of commercial disputes at major high courts.
- Bombay shows 8.5% and Delhi 13.5%, much lower than perceived volume.
Court Relief From Reducing State Cases Is Limited
- Low court share means reducing government litigation won't much ease courts' caseloads.
- Courts gain little from reforms targeting only state-related commercial disputes.
State More Often A Respondent Than Plaintiff
- The government is more often sued than it sues in contract disputes.
- Bombay shows under 20% filed by the state, Delhi about 40%, implying firms drag the state to court.