‘People Must Feel Heard’: CJI Surya Kant Calls For Inclusive Justice System

Chief Justice of India Surya Kant called for a more inclusive and people-centric justice system on Saturday, saying courts and legal institutions must understand citizens’ concerns in their own languages and dialects.

Inaugurating the two-day West Zone Regional Conference on ‘Enhancing Access to Justice’ in Indore, the CJI said dialogue, dignity and inclusion should guide how the legal system interacts with people. He said the conference themes, ‘United Voice’ and ‘Stronger Tomorrow’, should not remain slogans but become defining principles of an effective justice delivery system.

Referring to Indore’s historical association with Devi Ahilya Bai, CJI Surya Kant recalled that she met farmers, widows and traders directly, without intermediaries. He said her approach removed barriers between the ruler and the people, making Indore an appropriate venue for the conference.

The CJI said laws alone could not guarantee access to justice. Before receiving justice, people must feel that authorities have heard and understood their concerns. A collective voice could emerge only when the system recognised individual voices, he added.

Highlighting the role of paralegal volunteers and legal services institutions, CJI Surya Kant said local problems required local solutions based on direct engagement with communities.

Legal services personnel must understand regional languages and dialects to comprehend the experiences of ordinary citizens and develop effective responses, the CJI said.

CJI Surya Kant stressed that dialogue must operate in both directions. The justice delivery system should not merely communicate decisions but actively listen to communities and understand the difficulties they face.

The two-day conference brings together legal and government leaders to strengthen legal aid, mediation and inclusive access to justice.

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