The Supreme Court, quoting Shakespeare’s famous line “Let’s kill all the lawyers,” criticised investigating agencies for summoning advocates in criminal cases, warning that such actions could infringe upon their fundamental rights and undermine the independence of the legal profession.
Former Chief Justice of India D.Y. Chandrachud’s tenure is marked by a legacy of empathy, inclusivity, and a deeply humane approach to justice. Concerned about his legacy, he balanced his role with a profound sense of responsibility, emphasizing that the judiciary’s mission goes beyond legal interpretation to protect dignity and serve those most vulnerable. His leadership transformed the judiciary into not just an arbiter of law but a force for healing and equity, bridging the gap between justice and humanity. In his retirement, both the legal fraternity and the public reflect on a CJI who brought compassion to the bench, leaving the institution better than he found it.
Live streaming of court proceedings in India is seen as a “double-edged sword” because, while it promotes transparency, accountability, and public access to justice, it also poses challenges. On the positive side, live streaming allows citizens to witness the judicial process, enhancing trust and democratic engagement. However, it also raises concerns about privacy, the risk of sensationalism, and the potential for misuse of sensitive information. There is also fear that such visibility could influence the behavior of judges, lawyers, and witnesses, affecting the impartiality of court proceedings. Thus, while live streaming can enhance transparency, it must be balanced with safeguards to protect judicial integrity and privacy.
The article critiques society’s desensitization to rape and the reactionary nature of legislative changes that follow high-profile cases of sexual violence. It highlights West Bengal’s “Aparajita Woman and Child Bill 2024,” which introduces the death penalty for rapists, as an example of this approach. The author argues that new laws aren’t the solution, pointing to the ineffectiveness of existing legislation due to poor enforcement and deeper societal issues like patriarchy and the objectification of women. The article calls for a shift from creating more laws to ensuring the proper implementation of existing ones, while addressing underlying misogyny to bring about real change.
Justice Bangalore Venkataramiah Nagarathna has risen as a formidable force in India’s legal landscape, known for her unwavering commitment to justice and equality. She made a historic judgment in the Bilkis Yakub Rasool vs Union of India, recognizing the error of another Supreme Court bench and upholding the importance of judicial independence. Her bold decisions and dedication have instilled public trust in the judiciary, positioning her as a potential future Chief Justice of India.