Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi marked the commencement of the Diamond Jubilee celebration of the Supreme Court of India on January 28, at the Supreme Court auditorium in Delhi. In a significant event, he also launched citizen-centric information and technology initiatives, including Digital Supreme Court Reports (Digi SCR), Digital Courts 2.0, and a new website for the Supreme Court.
Prime Minister’s Address:
Addressing the gathering, Prime Minister Modi extended congratulations and expressed gratitude for being present as the Supreme Court enters its 75th year. He highlighted the foundational dream of a free India based on freedom, equality, and justice envisioned by the makers of the Indian constitution. He emphasized the Supreme Court’s role in preserving these principles and noted its contributions to individual rights, freedom of speech, and socio-political transformation.
Vision for the Future:
PM Modi outlined the government’s goals for the next 25 years, underscoring the importance of today’s economic policies as the foundation for a vibrant India. He stressed that the laws laid down today would shape the nation’s future, and he commended the Supreme Court for its pivotal role in this process.
Global Trust in India:
In the context of evolving global geopolitics, Prime Minister Modi emphasized the world’s increasing trust in India. He highlighted the need to capitalize on opportunities and identified ease of living, ease of doing business, travel, communication, and ease of justice as the nation’s top priorities. He asserted that ease of justice is the right of every Indian citizen and applauded the Supreme Court as its medium.
E-Courts Mission Project:
Recognizing the Supreme Court’s central role in the justice system, PM Modi reiterated the government’s commitment to making it accessible even in remote areas. He announced the approval of Rs 800 crore for the expansion of the Supreme Court Building Complex, addressing current infrastructure challenges.
Digital Initiatives:
Prime Minister Modi expressed satisfaction with the digital initiatives launched, including the Digital Supreme Court Reports and the translation of decisions into local languages. He envisioned similar arrangements in other courts across the country and highlighted the role of technology in enhancing the ease of justice.
Modernization of Laws:
PM Modi emphasized the need for Indian laws to reflect both traditional values and modern practices. He acknowledged the government’s efforts in abolishing outdated colonial laws and introducing legislation aligned with present needs. The Prime Minister stressed the importance of a seamless transition from old laws to new statutes and called for capacity-building initiatives for government officials.