“Swachh Bharat Abhiyan Must be Taken as Social Movement for a Healthier India”: Justice Sanjiv Khanna

Supreme Court judge, Justice Sanjiv Khanna said on Monday that ‘Swachh Bharat Abhiyan,’ the cleanliness drive initiated on Mahatma Gandhi’s birth anniversary in 2014, must be regarded as a “social movement” for fostering a clean and hygienic India, which ultimately leads to a “healthier and happier” nation.

Justice Khanna made these remarks during an event organized by the Supreme Court Bar Association to commemorate the birth anniversaries of Mahatma Gandhi and former Prime Minister Lal Bahadur Shastri on the premises of the apex court.

“We launched the ‘Swachh Bharat Abhiyan’ on Gandhi’s birthday. It is a social movement and it has to be taken as a social movement. Unless it is taken as a social movement, it will not be able to achieve its aims and objectives,” he stated, receiving enthusiastic applause from the audience.

He stressed that a clean and hygienic India contributes to the overall well-being of its citizens.

Justice Khanna also reflected on various aspects of Gandhi’s philosophy, including non-violence, satyagraha, fasting for social and communal harmony, goodwill towards all, and simplicity in life. He underscored Gandhi’s global reverence and asserted that the most fitting tribute to the father of the nation is to embody his teachings and put them into practice.

Quoting Gandhi, Justice Khanna said, “As he once said, carefully watch your thoughts, for they become your words. Manage and watch your words, for they will become your actions. Consider and judge your actions, for they become your habits. Acknowledge and watch your habits, for they shall become your values. Understand and embrace your values, for they become your destiny.”

The judge also cited another Gandhi quote relevant to the judiciary, stating, “Facts mean truth, and once we adhere to truth, the law comes to our aid naturally.”

Turning to the legacy of former Prime Minister Lal Bahadur Shastri, Justice Khanna described him as “a true Gandhian” who lived by his principles. He highlighted Shastri’s unwavering commitment to the nation, even during challenging times when he assumed the role of the second prime minister of the country. Shastri’s honesty, humility, and selfless dedication to India were lauded by Justice Khanna.

The event saw the presence of several bar leaders, including SCBA Secretary Rohit Pandey, as well as lawyers.