Today, On 7th April, Chief Justice of India, Sanjiv Khanna emphasized that judiciaries grow stronger through collaboration and mutual respect. He said the signing of the memorandum of understanding (MoU) is more than just a formal step. It reflects the deep, historic connection between the institutions involved. The MoU symbolizes a shared commitment to justice and legal cooperation.
New Delhi: Chief Justice of India Sanjiv Khanna emphasized the importance of judicial collaboration during the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Supreme Court of Nepal on Monday.
This agreement not only formalizes a partnership but also reinforces a historic connection through shared efforts, mutual respect, and a common objective.
CJI Khanna remarked,
“The signing of the memorandum of understanding (MoU) is not a mere formal exchange but the reaffirmation of a centuries-old bond, renewed with a spirit of collaboration, mutual respect and shared purpose”
Chief Justice Khanna remarked at the event,
“India and Nepal share more than just borders; our bond is woven through history and civilizational values, encompassing everything from the sacred Himalayas to the spiritual teachings of Gautam Buddha,”
He underlined that these connections are deeply rooted in traditions and the democratic institutions that both nations hold dear.
CJI Khanna highlighted the crucial role of the judiciary in upholding the constitution, enforcing the rule of law, and ensuring justice for all. He noted the growing importance of collaboration between the judicial systems of India and Nepal.
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Referring to the case of Navtej Singh Johar v Union of India, CJI Khanna pointed out that the Indian Supreme Court referenced a Nepalese judgment in its landmark decision to decriminalize Section 377 of the Indian Penal Code.
He stated,
“This is an example of how legal principles from one country can inspire broader jurisprudential changes in another,”
He celebrated the incorporation of Indian constitutional doctrines, such as the Basic Structure doctrine, into Nepal’s legal system, illustrating the profound intellectual connection and mutual enhancement between the legal frameworks of the two nations.
CJI Khanna explained,
“These exchanges aren’t just coincidental but a natural outcome of our shared intellectual legacy, fostering a broader understanding of legal principles in a South Asian context,”
He believes these interactions are essential for constitutional democracies to evolve, adapt, and stay receptive to influences that align with their historical and social contexts.
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The MoU aims to formalize this traditional kinship through judicial exchanges, collaborative research, training programs, seminars, and visits.
He added,
“These are vital for not only enhancing understanding and cooperation between our legal systems but also for tackling common challenges like access to justice, judicial delays, and ensuring the protection of constitutional rights in our fast-evolving societies,”
Chief Justice Khanna envisions a future where these engagements are not merely academic or ceremonial but integral to establishing a strong regional judicial integrity and reinforcing the commitment to justice and the rule of law across both nations.