Judiciary an integral institution, complacency not an option: CJI

Chief Justice of India Dhananjaya Y Chandrachud on Sunday underscored that complacency is a luxury the judiciary cannot afford even as he acknowledged the ongoing challenge of case pendency and emphasised that the judiciary’s effectiveness and independence are closely tied to ensuring proper working conditions and financial security for judges. In an institution as integral to the life of a nation as the judiciary – complacency is not an option.” In his address at the valedictory function of the National Conference on the District Judiciary, the CJI acknowledged that while there has been significant progress in modernising the judiciary and improving its infrastructure, pendency remains a formidable challenge. “Providing proper working conditions for the district judiciary is a small price which the nation pays for securing their independence and impartiality,” said the CJI, warning that “a financially insecure judiciary poses a grave danger to a stable democratic society.” Inclusivity and the push for gender equality in the judiciary: CJI Chandrachud also addressed the need for greater inclusivity within the judiciary, expressing regret over the fact that only 6.7% of district court infrastructure is women-friendly. The CJI said that addressing infrastructure gaps requires a “strong government-court partnership” for expediting projects for a future-ready judiciary. Bridging the gap between district and high courts: Addressing the perceived gap between the district judiciary and the high courts, CJI Chandrachud underlined the need to bridge this divide, which he attributed to colonial subordination.