Today(31st Aug), Prime Minister Narendra Modi emphasized the need for swift justice in crimes against women to enhance their safety and praised the judiciary for upholding constitutional responsibilities. Speaking at the national conference of the district judiciary, he highlighted the enduring trust the people of India have in the Supreme Court and the judiciary.
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NEW DELHI: Amid rising public anger over the alleged murder and sexual assault of a female trainee doctor in Kolkata, Prime Minister Narendra Modi has stressed the importance of ensuring swift justice in cases related to crimes against women. Today(on 31st Aug), Speaking at the inaugural event of the two-day National Conference of District Judiciary at Bharat Mandapam, PM Modi reiterated that several stringent laws have been enacted in the country to safeguard women, but highlighted the need for these laws to be enforced more effectively.
The Urgency of Speedy Justice in Crimes Against Women
The Prime Minister’s address comes at a time when the nation is grappling with several heinous crimes against women, including the recent sexual assault on two kindergarten girls in Thane.
Against this backdrop, PM Modi stated-
“The faster justice in cases of atrocities against women will provide greater safety assurance to half the population
This statement underscores the urgent need for the judiciary to act swiftly in such cases, ensuring that justice is not delayed.
PM Modi emphasized that while the country has made significant strides in enacting strict laws for the protection of women, the implementation of these laws needs to be more proactive.
“Today, atrocities against women and the safety of children are major societal concerns. Although strict laws for women’s safety exist, we need to enforce them more actively.”
-the Prime Minister said.
The Role of Judiciary in a Developing India
In his speech, PM Modi also linked the judiciary’s role to the broader vision of a developed and modern India. He remarked-
“In the Amritkaal of Independence, 140 crore Indians share a single dream: a Developed India, New India—a modern India in thought and resolve. Our judiciary is a key pillar of this vision.”
This vision of a modern India, according to PM Modi, is deeply connected to the efficiency and integrity of the judicial system. He pointed out that over the past decade, significant efforts have been made to reduce delays in the justice delivery system.
“In the past decade, substantial efforts have been made to reduce delays in justice, with approximately Rs 8,000 crore spent on developing judicial infrastructure.”
-the Prime Minister noted.
He further added that 75% of the total expenditure on judicial infrastructure in the last 25 years has been incurred in just the last 10 years.
New Indian Judicial Code: A Step Towards Justice
Highlighting the recent reforms in India’s legal framework, PM Modi mentioned the introduction of the Indian Judicial Code, which he described as a departure from the colonial mindset that characterized older laws.
“We now have new Indian judicial laws under the Indian Judicial Code, reflecting the spirit of ‘Citizen First, Dignity First, and Justice First!’ Our criminal laws have moved beyond the colonial mindset of rulers and subjects.”
-he said.
The Supreme Court as the Guardian of the Constitution
PM Modi also took the opportunity to commend the Supreme Court and the judiciary at large for their role in upholding the Constitution and safeguarding the rights of citizens.
“In our democracy, the judiciary is seen as the guardian of the Constitution, a significant responsibility. We can be satisfied that the Supreme Court has made commendable efforts to uphold this duty.”
– he stated.
Reflecting on the judiciary’s performance over the years, the Prime Minister noted that the people of India have consistently shown trust in the Supreme Court.
“The people of India have always trusted the Supreme Court and our judiciary. The Supreme Court’s 75 years, as the ‘mother of democracy,’ enhance India’s pride and reinforce our cultural ethos of ‘Satyamev Jayate-Nanritam.'”
– he added.
National Security and Judiciary’s Role
Touching on matters of national security, PM Modi praised the judiciary for its role in maintaining national integrity by prioritizing national interests.
“On national security issues, the judiciary has upheld national integrity by prioritizing national interests.”
-he said.
The Inauguration of the National Conference of District Judiciary
Before concluding his address, PM Modi inaugurated the two-day National Conference of District Judiciary, which is being organized by the Supreme Court of India. The conference, which runs from August 31 to September 1, will feature five working sessions focused on critical issues such as judicial infrastructure, human resources, inclusive courtrooms, judicial security and wellness, case management, and judicial training.
At the event, the Prime Minister also unveiled a commemorative stamp and coin celebrating the 75th anniversary of the establishment of the Supreme Court of India. Chief Justice of India DY Chandrachud presented a memento to PM Modi in recognition of the occasion.
