Chief Justice of India DY Chandrachud, speaking at the inauguration of the Central Administrative Tribunal's new office premises in Mumbai, highlighted the disparate impact of case delays on female lawyers compared to their male counterparts. He expressed concern that prolonged court battles disproportionately affect female lawyers' clientele due to societal gender biases associated with intellect and capability.
CJI Chandrachud underscored the significance of timely case outcomes, emphasizing that while delays affect both male and female lawyers, the impact on women, given prevailing gendered perceptions, could be more pronounced. He noted that female lawyers not only contend with immediate opponents benefiting from delays but also confront entrenched gender biases about their competence in the legal profession.
Addressing the barriers to justice, including social, physical, and systemic hurdles, the CJI stressed the pivotal role of robust infrastructure in facilitating efficient and expedited legal dispute resolutions. He emphasized that well-maintained infrastructure not only enhances public confidence in the State's legal capacity but also accounts for the comfort of diverse segments navigating the complex legal landscape.
CJI Chandrachud cautioned against making virtual courts the sole avenue for accessing justice, particularly for physically disabled individuals or senior citizens. He emphasized the importance of physical access to courts, advocating for a choice between functional physical court complexes and efficient technology-enabled courts for litigants.
Highlighting Maharashtra's unique governance culture, the CJI appreciated the state's environment where the government refrains from interfering with judicial proceedings. He lauded the government's acceptance of both favorable and unfavorable judicial outcomes, attributing it to Maharashtra's governance culture that respects judicial autonomy.
In conclusion, the CJI urged a balance between technology-driven legal proceedings and physical court access while acknowledging Maharashtra's conducive environment for judicial work.
CJI Chandrachud's remarks shed light on the intersection of gender dynamics, access to justice, and infrastructure, emphasizing the need for equitable legal processes and inclusive legal environments.
