High Courts were established in India to strengthen the legal and judicial system. Today, there are several High Courts across the country, but do you know which was the first and oldest High Court in India? Its history is quite fascinating. Let’s explore when this High Court was established, where it is located, and why it remains so significant even today.

How did High Courts begin in India?
During British rule, the need for a robust judicial system in India was recognized. As a result, the ‘Indian High Courts Act’ was passed in 1861. This law approved the establishment of three High Courts in India: Calcutta (now Kolkata), Bombay (now Mumbai), and Madras (now Chennai).

Which is the first High Court in India?
The oldest High Court in India is the Calcutta High Court. It was established on July 1, 1862. Not only is it India’s first High Court, but it is also the longest-functioning high court in the country. When this High Court was established, Kolkata was the capital of British India, making it essential to strengthen the legal system here.

Key facts about the Calcutta High Court
This High Court hears cases from West Bengal and the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. Its building is constructed in European Gothic style and looks magnificent. Initially, British judges presided here, but gradually Indian judges also got opportunities. Many historic and landmark judgments have been delivered here, which have proven crucial for the country’s legal framework.

The significance of the Calcutta High Court today
Even today, the Calcutta High Court is counted among the country’s premier high courts. Thousands of cases are heard here daily, ensuring justice for people. This High Court is not just a historic building but also a strong pillar of justice.

Calcutta High Court

The Calcutta High Court, established in 1862, is the oldest high court in India and was modeled after the High Court of London. It was founded under the Indian High Courts Act of 1861 and played a significant role during the British colonial era. Located in Kolkata, it remains a key judicial institution with jurisdiction over West Bengal and the Andaman and Nicobar Islands.

Kolkata

Kolkata, formerly known as Calcutta, is the capital of India’s West Bengal state and a major cultural, commercial, and educational hub. Founded in 1690 by the British East India Company, it served as the capital of British India until 1911 and played a pivotal role in India’s colonial history and independence movement. Today, Kolkata is renowned for its colonial architecture, vibrant arts scene, and festivals like Durga Puja, reflecting its rich Bengali heritage.

Bombay

Bombay, now officially known as Mumbai, is a major coastal city in India and the capital of Maharashtra. Originally a group of fishing villages, it became a key trading hub under Portuguese and later British colonial rule, evolving into India’s financial and entertainment capital. Today, Mumbai is famous for landmarks like the Gateway of India, Bollywood, and its vibrant cultural diversity.

Mumbai

Mumbai, India’s bustling financial and entertainment capital, was originally a collection of seven islands inhabited by fishing communities. It gained prominence under Portuguese and later British colonial rule, becoming a major port and trading hub. Today, Mumbai is known for its vibrant culture, historic landmarks like the Gateway of India, and as the heart of Bollywood.

Madras

Madras, now officially known as Chennai, is the capital of Tamil Nadu and one of India’s largest cultural and economic hubs. Founded in 1639 by the British East India Company, it grew around Fort St. George, a key colonial outpost. Today, Chennai is renowned for its rich heritage, classical arts, temples like Kapaleeshwarar, and vibrant coastal culture.

Chennai

Chennai, formerly known as Madras, is the capital of Tamil Nadu and one of India’s largest cultural and economic hubs. Established in 1639 by the British East India Company, it grew around Fort St. George and became a key colonial port. Today, Chennai is renowned for its rich traditions in music, dance, and cuisine, as well as landmarks like Marina Beach, Kapaleeshwarar Temple, and vibrant arts festivals.

West Bengal

West Bengal, located in eastern India, is a vibrant state known for its rich cultural heritage, literature, and arts. It was historically part of the ancient kingdoms of Magadha and Bengal Sultanate, later becoming a prominent center under British colonial rule as the capital of British India (Kolkata) until 1911. Today, it is celebrated for its festivals like Durga Puja, contributions to Indian cinema and music, and landmarks such as the Sundarbans mangrove forest and the Howrah Bridge.

Andaman and Nicobar Islands

The Andaman and Nicobar Islands are a group of tropical islands in the Bay of Bengal, known for their pristine beaches, rich biodiversity, and indigenous tribes. Historically, they served as a British penal colony during the colonial era, with the infamous Cellular Jail in Port Blair symbolizing India’s struggle for independence. Today, the islands are a Union Territory of India, attracting tourists for their natural beauty and unique cultural heritage, including the protected tribal communities like the Sentinelese and Jarawa.