Foundation Day of SC: PM underscores Repealing Criminal Laws, CJI Reflects Future Vision

On Sunday 28 January, Prime Minister Narendra Modi emphasized the pivotal role of a robust judicial system in the development of India. Speaking at the Diamond Jubilee celebrations of the Supreme Court, he highlighted the transformative shift in the country’s legal, policing, and investigative systems due to the replacement of three colonial-era criminal laws.

The Prime Minister underscored the significance of repealing the colonial-era criminal laws and introducing the Bharatiya Nagrik Surksha Sanhita, Bharatiya Nyay Sanhita, and Bharatiya Sakshya Adhiniyam. These changes marked a monumental shift, and PM Modi stressed the importance of a smooth transition from age-old laws to new ones. Acknowledging the necessity for training and capacity-building of government employees, he urged the Supreme Court to actively participate in such initiatives for all stakeholders.

The Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita, and Bharatiya Sakshya Adhiniyam replaced the centuries-old Indian Penal Code (IPC), the Code of Criminal Procedure (CrPC), and Indian Evidence Act, respectively. These laws, passed during the Winter Session of Parliament and receiving President Droupadi Murmu’s assent on December 25 of the previous year, signified a monumental legal reform.

PM Modi emphasized that India, currently under global scrutiny, should capitalize on every opportunity. He identified priorities such as ease of living, ease of doing business, ease of travel, communication, and justice for the nation. Stressing the citizens’ entitlement to easy access to justice, he commended the Supreme Court as the primary channel for this purpose.

The Prime Minister disclosed that over Rs 7000 crore has been distributed by the Centre to enhance physical infrastructures in courts, with an additional allocation of Rs 800 crore for the expansion of the Supreme Court complex. He praised the Supreme Court for consistently reinforcing India’s vibrant democracy by safeguarding principles of freedom, equality, and justice.

Highlighting the court’s role in protecting individual rights, freedom of speech, and social justice, PM Modi noted the transformative decisions made over the past seven decades. He stated that every institution, organization, executive, and legislature in India is aligned with the goals of the next 25 years, resulting in significant reforms and shaping the foundation of a bright future for India.

Before the address of PM Narendra Modi the Chief justice of India Dr. DY Chandrachud expressed gratitude to the Prime Minister for launching new initiatives. he acknowledge the cultural bonds with Bangladesh, Bhutan, Mauritius, Nepal, and Sri Lanka, as their Chief Justices join the celebration, strengthening India’s ties.

Chief Justice of India Justice DY Chandrachud reflected on the Constitution of India, emphasizing its role in establishing the Supreme Court and fostering a sense of mutual respect and responsibility. The court’s founding idealism aimed at interpreting laws according to the rule of law, rejecting colonial values, and serving as a bulwark against injustice, he Said.

Celebrating both the Supreme Court’s inception and the collective efforts of generations, Justice Chandrachud highlights Mahatma Gandhi’s influence on their decisions, focusing on enhancing accessibility for common citizens. He discussed the transformative impact of initiatives like e-filing, digitization, and the e-Courts project, aimed at making the judicial system more efficient, accessible, and technology-enabled.

The achievements of the Court, including e-filings, virtual hearings, and digitization, are outlined. Chief Justice of India emphasized the adoption of futuristic court technology, office automation, and collaboration with institutions like IIT-Madras to explore automation and artificial intelligence.

Looking to the future, the Supreme Court plans to migrate digital data to a secure cloud, open a War Room for real-time monitoring, and enhance accessibility to judgments. Chief Justice of India Justice DY Chandrachud acknowledged changing demographics, emphasizing the need for inclusion, especially for women and marginalized sections.

CJI Justice Chandrachud concluded his speech with a call to address structural issues affecting the judiciary, such as case pendency and procedural challenges. CJI Juctice DY Chandrachud encouraged a shift from an adjournment culture to professionalism, timely resolution of cases, equal opportunities for first-generation lawyers, and a re-evaluation of long vacations. Finally he said that, the seventy-fifth year presents an opportunity for reflection and renewal of the pledge to uphold the Constitution, with gratitude extended to the High Courts for their support.