Introduction
Chief Justice of India (CJI) DY Chandrachud delivered a pivotal speech at the All India District Legal Services Authorities Meet, emphasizing that the success of legal services depends on public trust—not just statistics. His remarks, made in New Delhi, challenge conventional metrics like case disposal rates and highlight the need for a justice system that citizens genuinely believe in.
Justice Beyond Numbers
CJI Chandrachud argued that while data (e.g., free legal aid beneficiaries or case resolution rates) is important, it doesn’t reflect true success. “If people lack trust, no statistic will make the system effective,” he stated. This shifts focus from bureaucratic efficiency to qualitative impact, urging courts to prioritize fairness and accessibility.
India’s Trust Deficit in Judiciary
A 2022 CSDS survey found only 38% of Indians trust the judiciary, citing delays, complexity, and perceived bias. Marginalized communities often view courts as inaccessible. The CJI acknowledged these issues, stressing, “Justice must be transparent, fair, and reachable for all—regardless of economic status.”
How Legal Services Authorities Can Help
District Legal Services Authorities (DLSAs) provide free aid but struggle with awareness. The CJI proposed solutions:
– Legal literacy campaigns to educate citizens on rights.
– Simplified procedures to reduce intimidation.
– Empathetic engagement from lawyers and judges.
Tech’s Role in Building Trust
E-courts and virtual hearings have improved efficiency, but the CJI warned against tech alienating users. Instead, he advocated for:
– Vernacular-language interfaces in legal platforms.
– Human-centric digitization to enhance transparency.
A Collective Responsibility
Restoring faith requires collaboration:
– Judiciary: Simplify processes and improve accessibility.
– Lawyers/Civil Society: Advocate for marginalized groups.
– Media: Report accurately to shape positive perceptions.
The Way Forward
The CJI’s call to prioritize trust over metrics could redefine India’s judicial reforms. For citizens, engagement—not just criticism—is key to holding the system accountable.
— NextMinuteNews
