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Chief Justice of India D Y Chandrachud has cautioned against the tendency to view courts as temples of justice and judges as deities, emphasizing the potential dangers of such a perception.
During his address at the East Zone-II Regional Conference of the National Judicial Academy in Kolkata, Justice Chandrachud highlighted the dangers of using terms like 'Honour,' 'Lordship,' or 'Ladyship' when addressing judges.
He argued that equating the court to a temple and judges to deities creates a dangerous illusion of infallibility and superiority, undermining the core principles of justice and accountability.
Justice Chandrachud's statement underscores the importance of maintaining a balanced perspective on the role of the judiciary in a democratic society. While acknowledging the vital role judges play in upholding the rule of law, he stresses the need to avoid elevating them to a position beyond scrutiny or criticism.
He emphasizes that judges are human beings entrusted with a significant responsibility, and their decisions should be subject to open and critical evaluation. The perception of judges as deities can create an atmosphere of reverence and deference that hinders open dialogue and constructive criticism, potentially compromising the integrity and impartiality of the justice system.
Furthermore, Justice Chandrachud's remarks resonate with the need for judicial accountability and transparency. He recognizes that the judicial system, like any other institution, is not immune to errors or biases. By acknowledging the fallibility of judges, he promotes a culture of self-reflection and continuous improvement within the judiciary.
Ultimately, Justice Chandrachud's observations serve as a timely reminder that the judiciary is an integral part of a democratic system, not an isolated entity beyond scrutiny. By fostering a culture of accountability and humility within the judiciary, we can ensure that the courts remain a pillar of justice and uphold the principles of fairness and equality for all.
Source: Judges not deities, dangerous to think of court as temple of justice: CJI D Y Chandrachud