CJI: Law needs to operate humanely, judiciary has to be sensitive about people's problems

NEW DELHI: The Chief Justice of India N.V. Ramana on Sunday said primarily the ability of constitutional courts is to function with absolute independence and necessary boldness in the face of adversity -- which defines institution's character -- and emphasized "the law needs to operate humanely", and the state judiciary has to be sensitive to people's problems and their practical difficulties.

The Chief Justice was speaking at the valedictory ceremony of the pan-India legal awareness and outreach campaign organised by National Legal Services Authority (NALSA).

He said: "The State judiciary, being closely associated with the people, has to be sensitive and aware about their problems and practical difficulties. In particular, it needs to be cognizant about both victims and as well as accused and must facilitate their emergency needs". He added, "After all, the law needs to operate humanely. Remember, it is the trial court which is approached first by a woman in distress, a child in need of care, or an illegal detenue." The Chief Justice emphasized that the court's decisions have a huge social impact, and it should be easily comprehensible and must be written in simple and clear language.

He said it is, primarily, the ability of constitutional courts to function with absolute independence and necessary boldness in the face of adversity, that defines the character of the institution. "Our ability to uphold the Constitution sustains our impeccable character. There is no other way to live up to the faith of our people. Poverty is a misfortune for which the law cannot take any responsibility at all", he added.

The Chief Justice said the stark divide between haves and have nots is still a reality and no matter how many cherished declarations, "we successfully arrive at it, in the face of poverty, inequity and deprivations, it will all seem pointless". (IANS)

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