CJI Chandrachud Emphasizes Importance of Public Trust and Accessibility in Judiciary During Bhutan Lecture

BY: THE LEX TIMES

In a public lecture in Bhutan, Chief Justice of India Dr. D.Y. Chandrachud emphasized the vital role public trust plays in maintaining the credibility of courts. Since judges are not elected and do not operate based on popular will, public trust becomes the foundation of their moral authority. Speaking at the Jigme Singye Wangchuck Lecture Series at Bhutan’s JSW School of Law, the CJI highlighted that institutional trust is essential for a functioning constitutional order, with public confidence being central to the legitimacy of the judiciary, which operates independently of public opinion.

CJI Chandrachud noted that because courts address everyday problems of citizens, earning and maintaining public trust is paramount. He stated that if courts aim to be seen as effective in resolving disputes and serving as deliberative bodies, public trust is not merely a matter of legitimacy but is key to their broader role as institutions focused on public service. He also stressed the importance of transparency, responsiveness, and accessibility in fostering this trust. Initiatives like live-streaming court proceedings, according to him, enhance internal accountability and institutional efficiency, while also encouraging public trust by promoting openness.

Further, the CJI underscored the significance of perceived fairness in judicial processes. He remarked that the appearance of justice being done is as crucial as the actual outcomes of court cases. Open and accessible courts, he argued, are essential to ensure that not only constitutional decisions but also the processes leading to them are transparent and fair. Technology, including virtual hearings and simplified procedures, will be crucial in achieving this vision.

In discussing reforms, CJI Chandrachud highlighted various technological advancements that have improved access to justice in India. Initiatives like virtual hearings, live-streaming, e-filing, online case management systems, AI-based translation tools, and the e-SCR project have all contributed to making the legal process more understandable for ordinary citizens. He noted that factors such as language barriers, physical distance from courts, and complex legal procedures can alienate people from the legal system, undermining public trust. He also pointed out that for many litigants, physical access to courts remains costly and difficult due to poor infrastructure and long distances, often leading to significant financial strain.

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