Chief Justice of India (CJI) Surya Kant has called for a transformative approach in the judiciary, urging it to function like 24x7 hospitals to alleviate the pain and aspirations of the common man. Speaking at a recent event, he highlighted the need for the legal system to be more accessible, responsive, and efficient, ensuring that justice is not delayed or denied.
Judiciary as a Service-Oriented Institution
The CJI emphasized that the judiciary must evolve into a service-oriented institution, prioritizing the needs of ordinary citizens. He stated that just as hospitals operate round the clock to save lives, courts must work tirelessly to deliver justice. This includes extending court hours, leveraging technology for case management, and reducing procedural delays.
Key Proposals for Reform
- Extended Court Timings: Courts should consider operating beyond traditional hours to accommodate the schedules of litigants and lawyers.
- Technology Integration: Adoption of digital tools for filing cases, virtual hearings, and real-time case tracking to enhance transparency and speed.
- Simplified Procedures: Streamlining legal processes to make them less intimidating and more user-friendly for the common person.
- Alternative Dispute Resolution: Promoting mediation and arbitration to reduce the burden on courts and provide quicker resolutions.
Addressing the Common Man's Pain
CJI Surya Kant acknowledged that many citizens avoid approaching courts due to fear of complexity, high costs, and prolonged timelines. He stressed that the judiciary must actively work to remove these barriers. By adopting a 24x7 approach, courts can become more approachable and better equipped to handle the aspirations of a rapidly developing society.
Role of Technology in Modern Judiciary
The CJI highlighted the role of technology in revolutionizing the judicial system. He noted that virtual courts, e-filing, and digital records have already shown promise in reducing pendency. Expanding these initiatives can help courts operate efficiently beyond traditional hours, making justice accessible anytime, anywhere.
Judicial Infrastructure and Human Resources
To achieve this vision, the CJI called for significant investments in judicial infrastructure and human resources. This includes building more courtrooms, hiring additional judges and staff, and providing continuous training to keep pace with technological advancements. He also emphasized the need for a supportive ecosystem involving lawyers, litigants, and government agencies.
In conclusion, CJI Surya Kant's call for a 24x7 judiciary is a bold step towards reimagining the legal system as a dynamic, accessible, and empathetic institution. It underscores the need for systemic reforms that prioritize the common man's experience and ensure that justice is not a privilege but a fundamental right available around the clock.
