In a significant event held today (9 March 2024), marking the inaugural ceremony of the Hamara Samvidhan Hamara Samman (Our Constitution Our Respect) Campaign, Chief Justice of India (CJI) Dr DY Chandrachud underscored the importance of judges articulating judgments in simple language to ensure accessibility for the common people. The event, held in Bikaner, Rajasthan, commemorated the 75th Year of India as a Republic and aimed to promote awareness about the Constitution and citizens' rights and duties.
During his address, CJI Chandrachud emphasized the pivotal role of the Constitution in fostering national unity and progress. He quoted Sir Ivor Jennings, a renowned British constitutional law expert, who characterized India's constitution as a "lawyer's paradise." CJI Chandrachud invoked B.R. Ambedkar's speech in the constituent assembly, emphasizing that the constitution is more than a legal document; it is a living entity embodying the spirit of the age.
Highlighting the widespread impact of the constitution on basic rights such as ration, clean water, and health, CJI Chandrachud asserted that the Constitution transcends the confines of legal texts, permeating from courtrooms to villages. He stressed the need to ensure constitutional education reaches every corner of the country, particularly rural areas.
Discussing technological advancements, CJI Chandrachud noted the implementation of Jan Seva across the country and the Supreme Court's adoption of videoconferencing for hearings. He highlighted the positive impact, allowing lawyers nationwide to argue cases from any location. The CJI pointed out the increased participation of women in legal proceedings, crediting video conferencing for offering flexibility and accommodating their multifaceted responsibilities.
At the event, the "Nyaya Sahayak" program was launched, introducing community-based messengers to generate awareness on legal services and Department of Justice solutions in Aspirational Blocks & Districts. CJI Chandrachud encouraged law students to actively participate in spreading awareness about the program, envisioning a human chain formed by students reaching out to the masses.
Concluding his address, CJI Chandrachud urged a collective commitment to uphold the core values of the constitution, fostering meaningful change in the lives of citizens. The event marked a significant step toward enhancing constitutional awareness and accessibility to justice across the nation.