In a recent address to the National Law School of India University, Supreme Court Justice DY Chandrachud spoke about the role of judges in the current social climate. He emphasized that judges cannot shy away from social realities and must take into account the changing dynamics of society when making decisions.
Justice Chandrachud noted that the Indian Constitution is a living document that must be interpreted in the context of the times. He said that judges must be aware of the changing social realities and must take into account the impact of their decisions on the lives of people. He further added that judges must be sensitive to the needs of the marginalized sections of society and must ensure that their decisions are in line with the constitutional values of justice, liberty, equality and fraternity.
Justice Chandrachud also spoke about the need for judges to be independent and impartial. He said that judges must be free from any external influence and must not be swayed by public opinion or political pressure. He further added that judges must be guided by the rule of law and must not be influenced by any personal biases or prejudices.
Justice Chandrachud’s address is a timely reminder of the importance of judicial independence and impartiality. In a democracy, it is essential that judges are free from any external influence and are able to make decisions based on the rule of law and the changing social realities. It is only then that justice can be served and the constitutional values of justice, liberty, equality and fraternity can be upheld.