Judiciary Is A Bridge Between Law And Justice, Judges Must Uphold Values, said Supreme Court judge Justice Prashant Kumar Mishra. He highlighted the role of district judiciary while addressing a seminar at the Academy in Guntur, Andhra Pradesh.
Supreme Court judge Justice Prashant Kumar Mishra emphasized the crucial role of the district judiciary in the judicial system during a seminar titled “Upholding the Constitutional Vision – The Role of the District Judiciary” at the Judicial Academy in Guntur, Andhra Pradesh.
Justice Mishra highlighted that all aspects of the justice system should align with the principles enshrined in the Constitution.
He advised judges to maintain a peaceful and composed demeanour even in challenging situations.
He pointed out that India possesses one of the largest judicial systems globally, and the Indian Constitution encompasses superior features compared to many other constitutions worldwide.
He stressed that the district judiciary holds significant importance within the legal framework, and delivering quality justice should be recognized as its primary responsibility.
He maintained that public access to justice heavily relies on the judiciary’s performance and that court proceedings should be made comprehensible to ordinary citizens to foster trust in the justice system.
Justice Mishra observed that the judiciary serves as a bridge between law and justice. Judges have a duty to uphold values and responsibilities with discipline and a sound legal foundation.
He encouraged judges to strive for excellence amid competitive pressures and to continually expand their knowledge. He asserted that protecting constitutional values should infiltrate every aspect of judicial functioning, not just be confined to specific duties.
He also noted that examining past records can provide valuable insights. He stated that merely delivering judgments does not encompass the entirety of the judicial process and that integrity must be reflected in those decisions.
The demeanor of a judge while delivering judgments is crucial. He clarified that the Constitution is more than a legal document; the legislature, judiciary, and executive must operate within its framework.
Justice Mishra affirmed that the Constitution offers equal opportunities to all, placing the district judiciary in a pivotal position, as it is the first point of contact for individuals seeking justice.
He remarked that several judgments have successfully gained public trust and confidence. He emphasized the importance of safeguarding individuals’ rights throughout various stages of case hearings and maintained that, despite technological progress, justice fundamentally relies on a humanitarian perspective.
He noted that delivering landmark judgments is not the only measure of success; resolving everyday matters with integrity and fostering public trust generates greater fulfillment. While judgments may not always attract public attention, they can provide significant relief to individuals.
Judges, he concluded, must exhibit calmness, restraint, patience, and composure to ensure the delivery of honest and impartial decisions.
In his address, Justice Dheeraj Singh Thakur, Chief Justice of the Andhra Pradesh High Court and Patron-in-Chief of the State Judicial Academy, reiterated the vital role of the district judiciary within the justice system. He emphasized that the right to life transcends mere existence, implying a quality life.
He warned that lapses in judicial functioning could hinder the proper delivery of justice as delineated in Articles 14 and 15 of the Constitution. He urged all stakeholders to uphold a just system and maintain a commitment to protecting the Constitution as a testament of respect toward it.
Also Read: “A Judge Is a Judge”: Delhi High Court Slams Lawyer for Shouting at Trial Court Judge
Justice Ravinath Tilhari, an Andhra Pradesh HC judge and Chairman of the Board of Governors of the academy, underscored that the Constitution guarantees civil rights to all individuals, necessitating robust protection by the district judiciary.
He remarked that disputes involving women and children are particularly sensitive and require resolution through appropriate procedures. By implementing clear practices at the grassroots level, cases can be addressed in line with constitutional standards.
He added that the Preamble of the Constitution ensures economic, social, and fraternal values for every citizen.