Central government will strengthen independence of judiciary: Law Minister Kiren Rijiju

The Central government will take steps to strengthen and support judiciary and to maintain its independence, Union Law Minister Kiren Rijiju said on Saturday..He was speaking at an event organised by the Bar Council of India (BCI) to felicitate Chief Justice of India (CJI) NV Ramana. "Government will not only strengthen the independence of judiciary but also provide support to the same," Rijiju said..He also said that the Union Cabinet has approved several infrastructure development proposals for lower courts."In the last cabinet meeting, we took some important decisions to support the infrastructure, especially in lower courts. We have sanctioned creation of important infrastructure such as courtrooms, lawyers' halls, bathrooms, digital rooms etc.," he said.The Law Minister assured that he will actively persuade State governments as well to come up with support for judges as well as lawyers.Rijiju also recounted his first interaction with CJI Ramana."When I met CJI Ramana for the first time, I did not know him a lot. I had heard about him from friends and media. In our first interaction, I realised that we have a CJI in whom we have full faith and trust," Rijiju said."I am privileged to honour somebody who has proven to be a person of high integrity and who is set to create a new dawn in the Indian Judiciary," he added..In his address, the Union Minister also reflected upon the issues faced by young lawyers who are not backed by the strength of large firms. He said that he is committed to take steps to provide assistance to such lawyers."Mr. Manan Kumar Mishra (BCI Chairperson) pointed out some issues regarding junior lawyers, those lawyers who do not enjoy the protection of large law firms and established bodies. They deserve to be given support and protection. I commit as the law minister to take all necessary steps in this direction.".The Law Minister also took a moment to appreciate the work done by the Supreme Court during the challenging COVID-19 pandemic period. "Let me appreciate the Supreme Court- during this very challenging time of Covid-19, you have set an example for many other nations. It has taken a huge stride by taking up so many cases and making so many important decisions," he said..Before ending his short address, Rijiju also reflected upon challenges staring at judiciary regarding pendency of cases. He opined that pendency in lower courts is an issue that needs to be addressed with urgency."People keep raising the issue of pendency of cases in the Supreme Court and High Courts. But if you look closely, we need to look at lower courts with urgency. When a person from a humble background expects justice, he gives up everything for the sake of justice. He sells off his land, his house, everything. If that justice gets delayed, then it’s a big question mark on all of us," he said..Further, he remarked that if justice is delayed for more than three years, it would amount to denial of justice. "We have to ensure that the common man is given priority when we talk about justice delivery mechanism in our country. Denying justice beyond a period of three years is a real delay and by that time justice may not even be needed," he said..[Read a live account of the event here]