Chief Justice of India Surya Kant on Saturday remarked that courts are protecting rights only for those who can afford to litigate, and failing to fulfill their constitutional function. Speaking at an event, the CJI emphasized that the judiciary must not only be the guardian of rights, 'it must be accessible enough for that guardianship to be real.'
Access to Justice Concerns
The CJI expressed concern over the growing gap between the legal system and the common citizen. He noted that while the Constitution guarantees fundamental rights to all, the reality is that many are unable to enforce them due to the high cost and complexity of litigation. 'When we speak of rights, we must remember that they are meaningless without the means to enforce them,' he said.
Constitutional Role of Judiciary
Justice Surya Kant underscored that the primary function of the judiciary is to ensure justice for every citizen, not just the privileged few. He called for a re-evaluation of court procedures and legal aid mechanisms to make justice more accessible. 'The judiciary must be proactive in reaching out to the marginalized,' he added.
The CJI also highlighted the need for alternative dispute resolution methods and technology to bridge the access gap. He urged lawyers and judges to adopt a more citizen-centric approach. The remarks come amid growing debates on judicial reforms and legal aid in India.
