New Delhi: President Droupadi Murmu addressed a pressing issue within the Indian judiciary pendency and backlog of cases on Sunday. Speaking at the closing ceremony of the National Conference of the District Judiciary, she underscored the urgent need for prompt justice, especially in sensitive cases such as rape. President Murmu emphasized that delays in justice erode public confidence, stating, When court decisions in cases like rape come only after a generation has passed, the common person feels that the justice process lacks sensitivity.President Murmu highlights concerns over judicial delaysPresident Murmu reflected on the perception of the judiciary in rural areas, where it is often seen as a divine institution. She noted the traditional saying, Bhagwan ke ghar der hai andher nahi (in Gods house, there may be a delay, but there is no injustice). However, she questioned the extent of these delays, asking, But how long is the delay How long can it be We need to think about this.Presodent Murmu expressed concern about the impact of such delays, suggesting that by the time justice is served, the victims might have lost their happiness or even their lives. By the time someone gets justice, their smiles might have disappeared, their lives might have ended. We should deeply reflect on this, President Murmu added.The Presidents remarks come in the wake of her condemnation of the recent tragic case of a 31-year-old trainee doctor who was raped and murdered in Kolkata. She called for significant reforms to address the culture of adjournments in courts, emphasizing that such delays contribute to injustice. President Murmu encourages continued efforts to strengthen judiciaryPresident Murmu also highlighted the positive strides made in the judiciary, including an increase in the number of women judicial officers. She praised recent improvements in administration, infrastructure, and training but stressed that much work remains. I am told that in recent times there has been improvement in the availability of timely administration, infrastructure, facilities, training and manpower. But there is still much to be done in all these areas, she stated.#WATCH | President Droupadi Murmu addresses the closing ceremony of the National District Judiciary Conference.She says ...I am told that in recent times there has been improvement in the availability of timely administration, infrastructure, facilities, training and… pic.twitter.com/g4LAO1ml78— ANI (@ANI) September 1, 2024Empowering women in justice: MurmuPresident Murmu praised the 50 percent increase in women on selection committees and called for further progress. She emphasized the need for a collaborative effort between the judiciary, government and police to address challenges in evidence and witness management. Highlighting the plight of victims, especially women, she noted that criminals often roam free while victims live in fear, lacking societal support.At the Bharat Mandapam event, attended by Chief Justice DY Chandrachud and Union Minister Arjun Ram Meghwal, President Murmu also celebrated the growing number of women judicial officers and launched the Supreme Courts new flag and insignia.
