Chief Justice of India (CJI) Sanjiv Khanna emphasized the need to address the “black coat syndrome” while speaking at the Human Rights Day event organized by the National Legal Services Authority (NALSA). He highlighted that human rights are inalienable and form the foundation of a just society. CJI Khanna stressed their critical role in fostering global peace and harmony. The celebration highlighted the importance of safeguarding these rights for the betterment of humanity.
New Delhi: Chief Justice of India Sanjiv Khanna emphasized the necessity for a compassionate and humane justice system, highlighting the importance of addressing the “black coat syndrome,” which reflects a profound fear and alienation among the general public regarding the criminal justice system.
Speaking at the Human Rights Day program organized by the National Legal Services Authority (NALSA), he stated that human rights are inalienable and form the foundational basis of human society, essential for global peace.
He asked,
“How do we ensure a compassionate and humane justice? How do we promote this in our legal system?”
He pointed out that criminal courts need significant reform and that while some laws have been decriminalized, much work remains. The CJI also addressed the issue of overcrowding in jails, noting that the number of undertrial prisoners exceeds the total prison capacity.
He remarked,
“Overcrowding particularly affects undertrials, severing ties with society and pushing them into a spiral of criminalization, which complicates reintegration.”
Khanna described Section 479 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita, which dictates the maximum period for detaining undertrial prisoners, as a “progressive” and “significant” step.
He explained,
“Prolonged trial detention affects the presumption of innocence, trapping individuals especially those from marginalized backgrounds in deepening cycles of disadvantage and societal alienation.”
The event attended by various dignitaries, including Minister of State for Law and Justice Arjun Ram Meghwal, NALSA’s executive chairman Justice B R Gavai, and Justice Surya Kant.
Justice Gavai remarked on NALSA’s commitment to empowering citizens and ensuring justice is accessible, particularly to poor individuals who often remain unaware of their rights.
Justice Surya Kant raised concerns about the challenges faced by elderly and terminally ill prisoners, noting that the medical protections under the right to dignity often remain “theoretical, inaccessible, and invisible.” He stressed the urgent need for compassionate measures to address the unique difficulties these individuals face.
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