A poignant image of an elderly couple dragging years of case files on a wooden trolley near a high court has ignited conversations about the deep-rooted issues within India’s justice system. Shared by Maheshwer Peri, the founder of Careers360, the photo encapsulates the challenges of those stuck in legal limbo.
A Symbol of Struggle
A few years back, In one of the court hearings that I was forced to attend, We saw this old couple doing the rounds at a high court. They carried files and papers of many years. The weight of the files represents the years they spent pleading, begging and seeking justice. Over… pic.twitter.com/QNGTVMR9D0
— Maheshwer Peri (@maheshperi) October 3, 2024
The photo, posted on X (formerly Twitter), shows the couple tightly holding hands, symbolizing their long fight for justice. Peri highlighted the “lax, insensitive, and empathy-lacking” nature of the system. The image has resonated with many, as it reflects the plight of individuals caught in the lengthy judicial process.
Online Reactions to the Heartbreaking Image
The image quickly gained traction, with thousands of views and comments. Some users expressed sympathy for the couple, while others criticized the system for being inaccessible to those without financial means. One user called out corruption, saying, “Lawyers and judges only work if they get exorbitant fees or bribes.”
Calls for Legal Reform
In his post, Peri emphasized the importance of law students taking up the cause of marginalized individuals like this couple. He encouraged the next generation to bring about social change by standing up for justice, adding, “As a lawyer, you don’t just change laws—you change lives.”
A Troubling Reality: Backlog in Courts
The image also highlights the growing backlog in Indian courts. Reports show that pending cases in High Courts have increased by over 33% from 2019 to 2023. Subordinate courts fare even worse, with over 40 million cases still unresolved.
Hope for Change
While some users expressed skepticism about the system’s ability to reform, others called for a renewed focus on humanity, justice, and compassion among India’s youth. The conversation surrounding this viral photo shows the urgent need for legal reform to address the inefficiencies and inaccessibility plaguing India’s justice system.
