Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar stated that the denial of legal aid posed an existential challenge to the vulnerable, emphasising that affirmative initiatives and policies can address issues faced by the weaker sections. He also urged the Global South to break free from its colonial past and collaborate to rectify historical wrongs perpetuating injustice and inequality.
Dhankhar noted that India’s example should be followed, with ongoing legislative considerations in Parliament expected to bring about a significant transformation in legal perspectives, eliminating exploitative provisions in procedure and penology. The reference seemed to be directed at the three bills aimed at replacing the IPC, CrPC, and the Evidence Act.
Speaking at the first regional conference on “Ensuring Access to Quality Legal Aid for the Vulnerable: Challenges and Opportunities in the Global South,” the Vice President highlighted Parliament’s commitment to legal reformation.
Key areas include promoting mediation, repealing archaic laws hindering progress, and enacting new laws addressing contemporary challenges. Dhankhar emphasised that access to legal aid and the justice system was crucial for nurturing fundamental human values and fostering equitable societies.
Referring to the Preamble of the Indian Constitution, Dhankhar pointed out that the declaration “We, the people of India” reflects the inclusive spirit of the Constitution, aiming to safeguard the rights of every citizen, regardless of background, circumstances, or social standing. He highlighted Article 32, granting every individual the right to move the Supreme Court for the enforcement of fundamental rights, as the “soul of the Constitution”, echoing B.R. Ambedkar’s eloquence.
VP Dhankhar also commended Chief Justice D.Y. Chandrachud for his mission mode initiatives over the last year, particularly focusing on securing legal aid and easy access to justice for the marginalised sections. The initiatives have proven to be a game-changer in bolstering both legal aid and access to the justice system for vulnerable segments of society. Law Minister Arjun Ram Meghwal, CJI D.Y. Chandrachud, and senior judges of the Supreme Court were present at the conference.
