Chief Justice highlights importance of diversity and representation in courts
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New Delhi: Chief Justice DY Chandrachud highlighted the significance of diversity and representation in the judiciary, stating that these elements are essential not only for addressing historical injustices but also for enhancing the decision-making capacity of courts.
Speaking at the second annual lecture series commemorating the first sitting of the Supreme Court on January 28, 1950, Chief Justice Chandrachud welcomed International Court of Justice Judge Hilary Charlesworth as the chief guest.
In his address, Chief Justice Chandrachud underscored the evolving representation of nation-states before the International Court of Justice (ICJ) and the importance of challenging its historically monocultural and Eurocentric outlook. He emphasised that integrating gender diversity within the courts would broaden perspectives, leading to more comprehensive and equitable decisions.
"It is important to emphasise that diversity and representation are crucial not only for rectifying historical injustices but also for enriching the decision-making capacity of courts. The evolving representation of nation-states before the International Court of Justice (ICJ) has notably challenged its historically monocultural and Eurocentric outlook," he said.
Acknowledging the strides made by the Supreme Court in gender inclusivity, Chief Justice Chandrachud mentioned the release of a sensitisation module for the judiciary on the LGBTQIA+ community. The module aims to educate members of the judiciary on gender and sexual diversity, appropriate terminologies, and recommended protocols for interacting with the queer community.
Additionally, the Supreme Court issued a 'handbook to combat gender stereotypes' last year, promoting the use of inclusive language and discouraging the use of stereotypes in decision-making.
Chief Justice Chandrachud also highlighted the recent designation of 11 women from various regions as Senior Advocates, marking a significant shift from the historical underrepresentation of women in such roles.
"Recently, Judge Julia Sebutinde, the first African woman to sit on the ICJ, has been elected as the vice president. To have more women as judges of the International Court of Justice is not the responsibility of the Court alone, but a share of the responsibility must be borne by nation-states and national groups who are responsible for the nomination process," he added.
The lecture series serves to celebrate the legacy of the Supreme Court, with Chief Justice Chandrachud expressing optimism about the evolving paradigms in law and justice crafted by the new generation of lawyers and scholars.
He further said: "The sitting of the Supreme Court for the first time echoed the aspirations of a nascent country burdened by the legacy of colonial rule and entrenched social stratification, yet equipped with a transformative, progressive, and foresighted Constitution."