Prime Minister Modi Emphasizes Swift Justice and Judicial Reforms at National Conference

In a significant address at the inaugural session of a national conference for district judiciary officials, Prime Minister Narendra Modi underscored the critical need for swift justice in cases involving crimes against women and children. His remarks come amidst public outrage over recent high-profile cases of violence against women, including the tragic incident involving a 31-year-old trainee doctor in Kolkata and the assault on two young girls in Thane.

Prime Minister Modi articulated a vision for a “Developed India” during what he referred to as the “Amritkaal” of Independence. He highlighted that the country’s 1.4 billion people share a unified aspiration for a modern and progressive nation. According to Modi, the judiciary stands as a crucial pillar in realizing this vision of a “New India,” reflecting contemporary values and a commitment to justice.

Modi emphasized that the Indian judicial system is undergoing a transformation, shedding its colonial past. He praised the introduction of the Indian Judicial Code, which he described as embodying the principles of prioritizing citizens, preserving dignity, and ensuring justice. This new framework signifies a departure from the old colonial mindset and represents a modern approach to legal governance.

The Prime Minister also acknowledged the significant financial investments made in judicial infrastructure over the past decade. He noted that approximately ₹8,000 crore has been allocated to enhance judicial facilities in the last ten years alone, a stark contrast to the more modest investments in previous decades. This recent expenditure accounts for 75% of the total investments in judicial infrastructure made over the past 25 years, highlighting a concerted effort to improve the efficiency and reach of the judiciary.

Addressing the issue of delays in justice, Modi reassured that the government has made considerable strides in streamlining judicial processes to ensure timely and effective legal proceedings. He stressed that these efforts are essential for maintaining public trust and confidence in the judicial system.

Modi’s address also touched upon the judiciary’s role as a custodian of the Constitution. He praised the Supreme Court and the broader judicial system for their unwavering commitment to upholding fundamental rights and national integrity. He recalled the challenging period of the Emergency, describing it as a “dark” era, but commended the judiciary for its pivotal role in defending individual freedoms and constitutional rights during that time.

Furthermore, Modi acknowledged the judiciary’s critical role in safeguarding national security while balancing it with the protection of fundamental rights. He commended the judiciary for prioritizing national interests and ensuring that national security measures do not undermine the core values of justice and integrity.

Throughout his speech, Modi emphasized that the Indian public has consistently demonstrated trust and confidence in the judiciary. He argued that the judiciary’s role in maintaining the rule of law and protecting constitutional rights is crucial for sustaining public faith in the legal system.

Prime Minister Modi’s address at the conference highlighted the ongoing reforms and investments aimed at modernizing the Indian judiciary. His emphasis on swift justice, substantial financial investments, and the abandonment of colonial-era practices reflect a broader commitment to enhancing the effectiveness and credibility of the judicial system in India.