India and Bhutan strengthen Judicial Cooperation through law clerk exchange MoU

The Supreme Court of India has signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with Bhutan’s apex court to promote judicial cooperation and professional exchange, Chief Justice of India Surya Kant said on Monday.

Under the MoU, two law clerks from Bhutan will be attached to the Supreme Court of India for three months , during which they will receive the same honorarium as Indian law clerks and have their travel expenses borne by the Supreme Court. During their tenure, the clerks will work in different courts, assisting judges, researching case laws, drafting opinions, and observing courtroom proceedings. The difference between the constitutions of India and Bhutan does not pose any issue for this exchange programme, as the clerks do not exercise judicial powers or decide cases; their role remains academic, advisory, and observational rather than constitutional or decision-making in nature.

Introducing the clerks to a packed courtroom, CJI Surya Kant described them as “ young and bright ” and said the initiative aims to enhance professional skills, foster mutual understanding, and strengthen institutional ties between the two countries.

“The MoU allows two law clerks from Bhutan to work with us for three months. They will receive our honorarium, and we will take care of their travel. Both are very bright and will be working across different courts,” the CJI said.

The program is expected to promote collaboration, knowledge sharing, and professional development , marking a key step in deepening judicial ties between India and Bhutan.