Justice Vikram Nath Advocates for Clear and Inclusive Judgments
In a landmark speech at the National Judicial Academy in Bhopal, Supreme Court Justice Vikram Nath stressed the importance of making judicial judgments clear, concise, and easily understandable for the general public. Speaking at the conference “Democratizing Justice: The Role of Language and Clarity in Judgments,” he argued that overly complex legal language alienates citizens, undermining the judiciary’s mission to serve them. His remarks have reignited discussions on making justice more accessible.
Why Clarity in Judgments Matters
Justice Nath highlighted a major issue in India’s legal system—many rulings are written in dense legal jargon, making them difficult for ordinary people to grasp.
“A judgment is not just for lawyers and judges; it is for the litigants, the citizens, and society at large,” he said. “If a common person cannot understand the verdict that affects their life, have we truly delivered justice?”
He emphasized that while the Constitution promises justice for all, the language barrier—especially the reliance on English—often excludes non-English speakers.
Overcoming the Language Barrier
A key challenge is that most High Court and Supreme Court judgments are issued in English, despite India’s linguistic diversity. Though some states translate rulings into regional languages, the process is slow and inconsistent.
Justice Nath proposed leveraging technology, such as AI-powered translations, to ensure timely access. He also praised initiatives like the e-SCR (Supreme Court Reports) project but noted that “accessibility is not just about availability—it’s about comprehension.”
Learning from Global Examples
The justice cited countries like Canada and South Africa, where legal language has been simplified and rulings are available in multiple languages. However, India faces unique challenges due to its vast caseload and linguistic diversity.
Legal experts support Justice Nath’s push but warn against oversimplification.
“While clarity is crucial, legal precision must not be sacrificed,” said Senior Advocate Prashant Bhushan. Others suggest integrating plain-language training into judicial education.
Public Support and Next Steps
Citizens have welcomed Justice Nath’s stance, sharing stories of struggling to understand court decisions without costly legal help.
To address this, he recommended:
1. Simpler Judgments – Reducing Latin phrases and archaic terms.
2. Regional Translations – Making rulings available in major Indian languages.
3. Public Legal Education – Providing summaries and explainers for complex cases.
Conclusion: A Step Toward Inclusive Justice
Justice Vikram Nath’s call for clarity in judgments is a crucial move toward making justice truly accessible. As India evolves, simplifying legal language could strengthen public trust and ensure that courts serve all citizens—not just legal professionals.
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