CJI Chandrachud Stresses on Holistic Access to Justice

CJI Chandrachud Stresses on Holistic Access to Justice

CJI Chandrachud Stresses on Holistic Access to Justice

Chief Justice of India DY Chandrachud, at the National Legal Services Authority (NALSA) Regional Conference, emphasized that access to justice extends beyond crafting pro-people judgements. It requires improvements in court administration, such as infrastructure development and better legal aid services. The CJI pointed out the need for judges to institutionalize processes and look beyond immediate cases to establish broader access to justice.

Global South and the Discourse on Justice

Justice Chandrachud highlighted the monopolization of human rights and access to justice discussions by industrialized nations, which often renders them unsuitable. He underscored the importance of amplifying the voices of under-represented populations in countries like India and addressing justice needs on a wider scale.

Changing Concepts of Justice in a Global Context

The CJI observed that justice, traditionally confined within state boundaries, is evolving due to complex transnational relations. He discussed the significance of the Global South, a political and economic category, noting its historical subjection to colonialism and its emerging role in global economics. Chandrachud stressed the need for legal cooperation and collaboration among these nations.

Challenges and Solutions in Justice System

Justice Chandrachud identified various barriers to justice, such as legal complexities, inequalities, judicial delays, and perceptions of bias against marginalized communities. He highlighted his initiatives during his tenure as CJI to enhance access to justice, focusing on the role of technology in bringing courtrooms closer to the people and ensuring inclusivity.

Event Highlights and Distinguished Speakers

The event, marked by CJI Chandrachud’s insightful address, also saw participation from Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar, Union Law Minister Arjun Ram Meghwal, G20 Sherpa Amitabh Kant, Supreme Court Justices SK Kaul and Sanjiv Khanna, and Attorney General R Venkataramani, each contributing to the rich discourse on legal access and justice.