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Grave Danger When Judges Perceive Themselves as Deities in Temples of Justice: CJI DY Chandrachud

 

Grave Danger When Judges Perceive Themselves as Deities in Temples of Justice: CJI DY Chandrachud

Introduction: The Context of Judicial Perception In a regional conference of the National Judicial Academy in Kolkata, Chief Justice of India (CJI) DY Chandrachud addressed a significant issue: the perception of judges as deities within the judicial system. His comments were sparked by West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee’s analogy of courts to places of worship. Chandrachud's critique aims to reaffirm the essential role of judges as public servants rather than objects of reverence, highlighting the need for judicial humility and accessibility.

Judicial Humility vs. Judicial Reverence Chandrachud firmly rejected the notion of courts as "temples of justice," suggesting that such a perception risks judges viewing themselves in an exalted, almost divine light. He argued that the judiciary must remain grounded in humility, emphasizing that judges are fundamentally public servants whose role is to deliver justice with empathy and compassion. This perspective stands in stark contrast to the traditional view, which often places judges on a pedestal, potentially distancing them from the public they serve.

Mamata Banerjee's Perspective West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee had recently equated the judiciary with religious sanctuaries, highlighting the courts as crucial bastions of justice similar to temples, mosques, gurudwaras, and churches. Banerjee's remarks underscore the judiciary's role in upholding constitutional rights and delivering unbiased justice. She called for the judiciary to maintain its integrity and purity, free from political influence. Her view reflects a deep respect for the judiciary as a vital institution for safeguarding democracy.

Risks of Deification in the Judiciary CJI Chandrachud warned that titles such as "Honour" and "Lordship" could inadvertently foster a sense of superiority among judges. Such titles risk creating an environment where judges may see themselves as infallible, potentially leading to a disconnect from their primary duty of serving the public. Chandrachud's emphasis on rejecting these lofty perceptions is aimed at fostering a judiciary that remains empathetic and service-oriented, ensuring that judges do not become aloof from the communities they serve.

The Role of the Judiciary in a Democratic Society The discourse between Chandrachud and Banerjee touches on the broader theme of the judiciary's role in a democracy. While Banerjee's comments reflect a reverence for the judiciary as a sacred institution, Chandrachud's cautionary stance advocates for judicial humility. This debate highlights the judiciary's critical function in upholding justice and constitutional values, emphasizing the need for a balanced approach that combines respect for the judiciary with an insistence on its accessibility and accountability.

Chandrachud’s Vision for Judicial Service CJI Chandrachud’s call for judicial humility resonates with the democratic principle that judges should be servants of the people. By rejecting the deification of judges, he promotes a vision of the judiciary that is approachable and committed to public service. This approach aligns with the ideals of a democratic judiciary that remains connected to the populace it serves, ensuring that justice is not only done but seen to be done in a manner that is compassionate and fair.

Conclusion: The Imperative of Judicial Humility The dialogue between CJI DY Chandrachud and Mamata Banerjee reflects a profound discussion on the judiciary's role and perception in India. Chandrachud’s emphasis on humility and service challenges traditional notions of judicial reverence, advocating for a judiciary that is both compassionate and empathetic. This discourse is essential for maintaining the integrity and accessibility of the judicial system in a democratic society, ensuring that the judiciary remains a true servant of the people.

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