Today, On 26th November, Delhi High Court Chief Justice Manmohan stated that the Constitution has served as a vital roadmap for the nation’s progress. He emphasized its role in shaping India’s democratic principles, governance, and societal development. The Chief Justice highlighted the Constitution’s enduring relevance in addressing contemporary challenges.
New Delhi: During a program marking the 75th Constitution Day, Delhi High Court Chief Justice Manmohan emphasized that while the Constitution serves as a guiding framework for progress, it is also a living document that must adapt to contemporary challenges.
He stated,
“The judiciary stands at a pivotal moment in history, facing real challenges,”
Justice Manmohan highlighted the responsibility of the legal community to implement necessary reforms to uphold the trust placed in judicial institutions by the citizens of India.
He remarked,
“As members of the legal fraternity, we bear a significant responsibility to take decisive measures to ensure that our judicial institutions fulfill the confidence reposed in them by the public,”
Constitution Day has been observed since 2015 to celebrate the Constitution’s adoption by the Constituent Assembly in 1949, replacing the earlier observance of Law Day.
Accompanied by fellow judges, the Chief Justice also unveiled a Preamble Plague at the court premises. He reiterated that courts must act as guardians of justice, fairness, and equality, asserting that “justice should be accessible to all, without fear or favor.”
He stressed,
“Access to justice must not be a privilege for a select few; it is a fundamental right for everyone, particularly for the marginalized and vulnerable.”
Justice Manmohan remarked that over the past 75 years, the Constitution has been instrumental in guiding India through various challenges and triumphs, serving as a beacon of hope and inclusivity for more than a billion citizens.
He noted that when the Constitution was adopted, major nations were astonished by the vision of its framers, particularly Dr. B.R. Ambedkar, who envisioned a modern India.
While acknowledging that the ideals set forth in the Constitution seemed lofty and distant for a fledgling Republic, he emphasized that citizens persevered through difficult times and continued to advance.
He stated,
“The Constitution of India has united us, constantly reminding us of our unique characteristic: unity in diversity,”
He further pointed out that constitutional courts have played a significant role in reinforcing the commitment to an egalitarian democracy and fostering a scientific mindset.
Justice Manmohan highlighted that the Constitution accommodates diverse cultures, languages, and religions, establishing a governance system based on the principle that power resides with the people.
As Chief Justice of the Delhi High Court, he expressed his deep responsibility to uphold the rule of law and protect the rights guaranteed by the Constitution.
He affirmed,
“The judiciary’s role is to interpret and enforce these rights, ensuring that no individual or institution is above the law,”
Reflecting on India’s progress since 1949, he remarked,
“In the last 75 years, we have made remarkable strides in social, economic, and political development.”
He reiterated that while the Constitution serves as a continuous roadmap for progress, it is essential to recognize it as a living document that must adapt to contemporary realities while remaining true to the values that define India as a vibrant democracy.
Justice Manmohan urged everyone to recommit to the values enshrined in the Constitution, acknowledging that the task ahead is daunting yet achievable.
He asserted,
“Once we decide to pursue judicial excellence, even monumental challenges can be overcome,”
He concluded by calling for a reaffirmation of dedication to the Constitution’s promise of creating a just, equitable, and inclusive society where individual rights are safeguarded and justice is delivered fairly and promptly.
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