Chief Justice of India D.Y. Chandrachud emphasized that derogatory language, especially against women, has no place in courts. He highlighted the role of respectful, inclusive language in dismantling stereotypes and promoting access to justice for marginalized groups. “Our legal lexicon must reflect equality, not reinforce stereotypes based on gender, caste, or status.”
Panaji: Chief Justice of India D Y Chandrachud emphasized that all forms of derogatory language, particularly against women, have no place in courts, while addressing a gathering at the inauguration of the North Goa District Courts Complex near Panaji on Saturday. He noted that insensitive language can perpetuate harmful stereotypes, disproportionately affecting women and marginalized communities.
CJI Chandrachud referred to complaints from women judicial officers regarding the use of derogatory language by some members of the administrative establishment. He stressed that the language used in courtrooms should be inclusive, respectful, and empowering.
“We must actively work to dismantle all barriers to have truly democratic access to justice,”
he said, underscoring the importance of language reflecting these values. “The language which we use must reflect our ethos,” CJI Chandrachud said, adding,
“We must be vigilant in our choice of words, ensuring that our language is not only precise but also respectful and inclusive.”
The CJI noted that “insensitive or dismissive language can perpetuate stereotypes”, especially affecting women and marginalized groups.
“Very often, I hear complaints from women judicial officers that some members of the administrative establishment use derogatory language towards women,”
he said, calling for the eradication of such language in courts.
The CJI urged for the re-examination of legal language to ensure it does not reinforce stereotypes based on gender, caste, or socio-economic status. He revealed that the Supreme Court has prepared a handbook on gender, aimed at raising awareness about gender stereotypes within courtroom discourse.
CJI Chandrachud also stressed the importance of uplifting legal discourse in courtrooms.
“The litigants come before the court with a sense of trust and vulnerability,”
he said, noting that court practices should uplift legal discourse rather than undermine an individual’s dignity and faith.
Another significant point made by the CJI was the need to translate judgments and orders into regional languages, ensuring better access to justice. He mentioned that Supreme Court orders are being translated into Konkani, a process that needs to be expedited. He encouraged the Bombay High Court to ensure judgments are also available in local languages for better public understanding.
Reflecting on the larger role of the judicial system, the CJI emphasized the concept of a “conscientious court”—one that is aware of societal realities and the struggles of those seeking justice. He linked this to the recent redesigning of the Lady of Justice statue at the Supreme Court.
“The Lady of Justice in the Supreme Court does not carry a sword but instead holds the Constitution of India, a document with the transformative power to break the bonds of social hierarchies and inequalities,”
he said. He added that the blindfold, symbolizing impartiality, has been removed because “the law is not blind; it views everyone equally and is aware of social realities.”
CJI Chandrachud concluded by emphasizing that equality in law is not just formal but substantive, rooted in the understanding of historical disadvantages, privileges, and the struggles of certain communities. He remarked,
“Every individual who walks through the doors of our courts brings their own experiences, struggles, and hopes.”
The speech served as a powerful call for greater inclusivity, respect, and sensitivity within the judiciary, reminding everyone of the importance of language in shaping justice and the lives of those seeking it.
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