Chief Justice of India Surya Kant addressed Indian Army personnel in Leh, stressing access to justice for soldiers in remote areas, affirming that law must reach them as they safeguard the nation under challenging conditions.
For the first time, Chief Justice of India Surya Kant spoke to military personnel at a camp in Leh, highlighted the need for soldiers posted in remote, strategically sensitive regions to have easy access to justice. This was the inaugural occasion a CJI addressed troops at the Leh base camp, situated at roughly 3,500 meters above sea level.
Speaking to Indian Army personnel, the CJI acknowledged that servicemen posted in isolated and harsh terrains often confront legal and personal difficulties. The remoteness of their postings makes it very hard for them to approach courts or obtain legal help.
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The Chief Justice pointed out that soldiers serving in high-altitude areas cannot leave their duties to pursue legal matters at home, and emphasized the judiciary’s role:
“Law must reach the soldiers, because soldiers cannot always reach the law.”
He stressed that providing legal assistance is not charity but a constitutional duty under Article 39A of the Constitution of India, and that justice should not be determined by wealth, location, or social standing.
He also mentioned the ‘Veer Parivar Sahayata Yojana,’ introduced last year, which seeks to help by offering free legal aid and related services to defence personnel, veterans, their families, and paramilitary members.
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The CJI observed:
“We know that India sleeps peacefully at night because someone is in uniform, standing alert even in the most difficult conditions.”
Closing his address, he assured the troops:
“You protect the nation’s borders. It is the duty of the nation’s institutions to ensure your interests are protected in every difficulty.”
He praised the bravery, discipline, stamina, and commitment of soldiers and reaffirmed the judiciary’s promise:
“Justice will reach your doorstep.”
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