Chief Justice Sanjiv Khanna of India emphasized the importance of judicial independence, stating judges should not seek social media approval before delivering judgments. He highlighted the diversity and accountability of India’s judiciary, praised the successful legal aid system, recognized pro bono contributions, and acknowledged India’s progressive stance on women’s rights, especially abortion rights.
New Delhi: Chief Justice of India (CJI) Sanjiv Khanna, speaking at a recent event organized by the Society for Democratic Rights and Georgetown University Law Center, emphasized that judges are not elected and should not seek social media validation before delivering judgments. Highlighting the mechanisms that ensure judicial accountability, he explained that the judiciary relies on its training, the role of the bar, and open court proceedings to uphold transparency and integrity.
“We cannot go to social media before we pronounce and see whether you are going to like or not like the judgment. That’s not possible, should not be done,”
CJI Khanna stated. Instead, he underscored that the judiciary remains accountable through its rulings and the robust checks built into the legal system.
CJI Khanna noted the strength of India’s judiciary lies in its diversity, with judges from different regions bringing varied perspectives to the bench.
“Judicial accountability largely depends on the judges who adorn the chair because judges make the institution at that particular point of time,”
he observed.
He highlighted the advantages of a polyvocal court, where diverse jurisprudence contributes to sound decision-making.
“When we sit in twos and threes, judges bring their own thought processes and opinions. Sometimes it varies, but ultimately, this helps us come to the right conclusion,”
he said.
CJI Khanna lauded India’s robust legal aid system, describing it as one of the best globally. He praised the success of the Lok Adalat system, which has resolved approximately 130 billion cases in seven years.
“They are very happy with the success of Lok Adalats and the relief they get. It brings justice to their doorsteps,”
he remarked.
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The Chief Justice also highlighted the contributions of pro bono lawyers, with over 8,000 professionals volunteering to handle complex cases.
On women’s rights, CJI Khanna acknowledged India’s progressive stance, particularly in abortion rights, asserting,
“As far as women’s rights and abortion are considered, we are perhaps way ahead in many ways.”
CJI Khanna emphasized the judiciary’s evolving interpretation of fundamental rights under Articles 14 and 21 of the Constitution. While Article 14 ensures equality, incorporating concepts like manifest arbitrariness and proportionality, Article 21 now encompasses rights to food security, education, and environmental sustainability.
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