Chief Justice of India Sanjiv Khanna on Tuesday commemorated Constitution Day at the Supreme Court Bar Association’s celebration, where he highlighted the transformative impact of the Constitution on India’s democratic evolution.
He described the Constitution as more than just a legal framework, calling it a “transformative approach and a way of life.”
Reflecting on India’s journey since independence, CJI Khanna remarked, “India, since independence, has had a transformative journey from a nation which, under the aftermaths of the horror of partition, widespread illiteracy, poverty, and hunger… has emerged today as a mature and vibrant democracy, a self-assured nation, a geopolitical leader.” He attributed this evolution to the Constitution, emphasizing its role as the cornerstone of this progress.
Addressing the legal fraternity, he noted the symbiotic relationship between the judiciary and the bar. “Judges come from the bar and go back to the bar. We belong to the bar; the better the bar, the better the judges,” he stated.
The CJI urged lawyers to adhere to the principles laid out in the Charter of Constitution Day, emphasizing the need for their active role in upholding constitutional values.
CJI Khanna also celebrated the judiciary’s legacy, citing landmark rulings in environmental protection, privacy, fundamental rights, and the basic structure doctrine. He credited these achievements to the collaborative efforts of legal practitioners, stating, “Many of these decisions, I do not think, would have been possible without the contribution and efforts of the members of the bar.”
Turning to procedural reforms, the CJI addressed concerns about the handling of adjournment requests. He noted a significant drop in the number of such requests since the adoption of a new system.
“The data shows that there were about 9,000-10,000 applications or letters for adjournments being circulated every three months, which is more than 1,000 a day. With the new system, we now receive about 100-150 applications a month,” he explained.
While ruling out a return to the earlier system due to its inefficiency, he invited constructive feedback for further improving the current process. “Going back to the earlier system may be counterproductive. However, if you come up with suggestions for improvements, we will consider them,” he assured.
In his concluding remarks, CJI Khanna emphasized the importance of a strong and principled bar in maintaining the judiciary’s integrity and effectiveness. His address reinforced the vital role of legal professionals in safeguarding the Constitution’s transformative vision for India’s democracy.
