As the Supreme Court of India celebrated its 75th anniversary, Chief Justice of India (CJI) Sanjiv Khanna praised it as a true people’s court, “responsive to the conscience of democracy.” Addressing a ceremonial bench, CJI Khanna reflected on the court’s transformative journey and outlined three major challenges: pending cases, rising litigation costs, and the spread of falsehood.
“From its inception in 1950 as the successor to the Federal Court, the Supreme Court has grown into one of the world’s most dynamic apex courts, embodying the aspirations of 1.4 billion Indians,” CJI Khanna said. He emphasized the court’s accessibility to the public and its diverse judiciary, which ensures representation of varied voices at the highest level.
CJI Khanna highlighted the court’s adaptability and commitment to constitutional values, noting its role in addressing issues ranging from personal liberty to environmental concerns. “Over 75 years, the court has transformed the constitutional promise of justice into a living reality for millions,” he said, sitting alongside all 33 Supreme Court judges.
However, he also pointed out pressing challenges: “The weight of pending cases delays justice, rising litigation costs threaten accessibility, and the spread of falsehood undermines the very foundation of justice. These are the next frontiers in our pursuit of justice.”
The CJI divided the court’s journey into five phases: the Sunrise Years (1950s), Years of Anchorage and Discovery (1960s), Turbulence Leading to Social Justice (1970s-1980s), Consolidation of Fundamental Rights (1990s), and the Expansion Era (2000s-today). “Each decade reflects the nation’s challenges and the court’s evolving role,” he said.
CJI Khanna also quoted Dr. B.R. Ambedkar, stressing the importance of constitutional morality in nation-building. Attorney General R. Venkataramani and Supreme Court Bar Association (SCBA) President Kapil Sibal also spoke, with Sibal lauding the court for its impartiality and commitment to the rule of law since its inception.
The 75th anniversary celebration underscored the Supreme Court’s pivotal role in India’s democracy while acknowledging the hurdles it must overcome to ensure justice for all.
