Panaji: Speaking at the inauguration of the All India Judges’ Conference, the Chief Justice of India D Y Chandrachud pointed out that the Supreme Court is the ‘people’s court’ dismissing the perception that it is an opposition to Parliament. while addressing the International Legal Conference in South Goa, CJI Chandrachud said, assertively Signifying the need to preserve the judiciary’s endeavour to deliver justice to the masses over the 75 years its democratic existence.
Mr. Justice Chandrachud added, “The Supreme Court is the people’s court, and it should be viewed as such, and anyone who thinks that the Supreme Court is an active participant in the legislative process, let him stop doing so…”
People’s Incorrect Perception of the Supreme Court
The Chief Justice began correcting an obvious misapprehension; that after a favourable judgement the apex Supreme Court is hailed as an extraordinary court. But when the ruling in a case is negative in a particular way as to favour persons of interest, the court is dubbed as defamed. Describing this process as a “bad practise,” he said it should not be repeated.
Overcoming the Outcomes Paradigm in the Evaluation of the Supreme Court
Justice Chandrachud further pointed out that it would be quite unproductive to judge the working of the court by focusing only on decisional outcomes. ”You can’t look at the work of the Supreme Court with outcomes in mind,” he said, noting that in any given case, some may benefit while others do not. But judges have the freedom to make their decisions based on the merit of the case in front of them. He said that people should criticise legal principles and mistakes but should not criticise based on case results.
Supreme Court Live-Streaming: A Game Changer
Referring to live-streaming of court proceedings as a ‘game changer’, CJI Chandrachud said that the Supreme Court proceedings have come into people’s homes. He also emphasised that language in courts should also be chosen very wisely so as to make sure that is fitted for the court sessions and that it comprises the values of respect for cultures of all members of the society.
In connexion with recent modifications of the ‘Lady Justice’ sculpture, mentioned by CJI Chandrachud, it is significant to notice that the elimination of her blindfold means that justice can see everyone and is equitable in the legal proceedings.
Comments are closed.