CJI Chandrachud's Call for Simplified Legal Language and Technological Innovation

Chief Justice of India (CJI) DY Chandrachud, in his address at an event on March 9, emphasized the importance of making court judgments accessible to the common people by writing them in simple language. Speaking at the inaugural event of the Hamara Samvidhan Hamara Samman Campaign in Bikaner, Rajasthan, CJI Chandrachud highlighted the significance of the Constitution in uniting and progressing a nation.

He began his address by stating that the Constitution serves as a foundation for a country's unity and progress. Quoting Sir Ivor Jennings, a renowned British constitutional law expert, who famously referred to India's constitution as a "lawyer's paradise," CJI Chandrachud stressed that the constitution is not merely a legal document but a vehicle of life, embodying the spirit of the age.

CJI Chandrachud underscored that fundamental rights such as the right to ration, clean water, and health are derived from the constitution, which extends beyond the confines of textbooks to impact lives in villages and courts alike. He emphasized the importance of ensuring that constitutional literacy reaches every corner of the country, asserting that the mission remains incomplete until the constitution's teachings permeate rural areas.

Discussing technological advancements, CJI Chandrachud mentioned the implementation of Jan Seva across the country and the Supreme Court's adoption of videoconferencing for hearings. He highlighted the accessibility of court proceedings to the public, particularly emphasizing the increased participation of women advocates due to video conferencing, which allows them to balance multiple responsibilities efficiently.

During the event, the Nyaya Sahayak program was launched, aiming to raise awareness about legal services in aspirational blocks and districts. CJI Chandrachud encouraged law students to support this initiative, suggesting that each student could reach out to ten individuals, forming a human chain to spread legal awareness.

He also expressed his delight at the growing number of female law students, emphasizing the importance of their participation in legal education and practice. CJI Chandrachud concluded by urging everyone to uphold the core values of the constitution to bring about meaningful change in society.

In his address, CJI Chandrachud's emphasis on making court judgments accessible reflects a commitment to transparency and inclusivity in the legal system. By advocating for simplified language in judgments, he recognizes the importance of ensuring that legal decisions are understandable to all citizens, regardless of their educational background or profession.

The reference to Sir Ivor Jennings' characterization of India's constitution as a "lawyer's paradise" underscores the complexity of legal language and the need to bridge the gap between legal jargon and lay understanding. CJI Chandrachud's call for simplicity in legal writing aligns with broader efforts to promote legal literacy and empower citizens to understand and engage with the law effectively.

Moreover, CJI Chandrachud's discussion of fundamental rights underscores the foundational role of the constitution in safeguarding individual liberties and promoting social justice. By highlighting the practical implications of constitutional provisions on everyday life, he underscores the relevance of constitutional principles in addressing contemporary challenges and advancing societal well-being.

The incorporation of technology into the legal process, as exemplified by the adoption of video conferencing for court hearings, reflects a commitment to innovation and efficiency in the delivery of justice. CJI Chandrachud's recognition of the positive impact of video conferencing on women advocates highlights the potential of technology to enhance accessibility and inclusivity in the legal profession.

The launch of the Nyaya Sahayak program further demonstrates a proactive approach to legal outreach and community engagement. By enlisting the support of law students and leveraging their networks to promote legal awareness, the program seeks to bridge the gap between legal institutions and marginalized communities, thereby enhancing access to justice for all.

Overall, CJI Chandrachud's address underscores the transformative potential of constitutional literacy and legal empowerment in fostering a more equitable and just society. By championing accessibility, transparency, and inclusivity in the legal system, he reaffirms the judiciary's commitment to upholding the rule of law and safeguarding the rights and dignity of all citizens.