CJI: Supreme Court Verdicts Translated into 16 Languages for Wider Access to Justice
Chief Justice of India Surya Kant announced the translation of Supreme Court judgments into 16 languages to enhance access to justice. During an event promoting Hindi, he emphasized the cultural importance of Etawah and honored the contributions of Justice Prem Shankar Gupta, who issued numerous judgments in Hindi.
In a significant move aimed at enhancing the accessibility of justice across the country, Chief Justice of India Surya Kant announced the translation of Supreme Court judgments into 16 languages. This initiative, revealed during a recent event promoting the use of Hindi in legal proceedings, underscores a commitment to making legal resources more approachable for diverse linguistic communities in India.
The event, held in Etawah, a historically rich city known for its cultural contributions, served as an appropriate backdrop for such an announcement. While addressing an audience of legal experts, academicians, and local residents, CJI Surya Kant emphasized the importance of bridging language barriers in legal frameworks. He cited the need for individuals to understand judicial pronouncements in their native tongues, thus ensuring that the law is accessible to all, irrespective of their linguistic background.
"Justice should not be an abstract concept confined to a language that only a few can understand," Justice Kant noted, reflecting on the impact of language on the delivery of justice. By translating judgments into languages such as Tamil, Bengali, Telugu, and others, a broader spectrum of the population will be equipped to comprehend legal matters that directly affect their lives. This initiative not only aims to demystify the legal process but also fosters the belief that justice is a right accessible to every citizen.
The Chief Justice also paid homage to the late Justice Prem Shankar Gupta, who championed the use of Hindi in legal judgments. Justice Gupta's pioneering efforts in issuing numerous judgments in Hindi paved the way for heightened interest in vernacular languages within the judiciary. This initiative aligns with his vision of making justice more relatable and understandable for the common person, reinforcing the cultural and ethical fabric of Indian society.
The translation project is set to roll out in phases, beginning with the most frequently cited judgments, and will eventually encompass a variety of legal decisions spanning multiple domains. Legal experts and linguists are being enlisted to ensure the accuracy and clarity of these translations, highlighting the Supreme Court's dedication to linguistic inclusivity.
Beyond merely translating text, the project aims to invigorate discussions around legal literacy in India. A greater understanding of judgments in one's own language can lead to a more informed citizenry, one that is aware of its rights and responsibilities. This initiative is expected to empower individuals to engage more meaningfully with the judicial process and seek legal recourse when necessary.
As the transformation unfolds, various stakeholders— from students in law schools to rural communities— are being invited to partake in workshops and seminars exploring the implications of this substantial leap towards linguistic inclusivity in the judiciary. Many view this as a crucial step in demystifying the law, enabling a more equitable society.
In conclusion, the Supreme Court's initiative to translate judgments into 16 languages not only promotes accessibility but also honors the linguistic diversity that defines India. As CJI Surya Kant aptly stated, the move is about ensuring that justice transcends language barriers, making it a living reality for every Indian citizen.
