On a significant Saturday morning at the Dr. Babu Rajendra Prasad International Convention Centre in Yelahanka, the 21st Biennial State Level Conference of Judicial Officers unfolded with Karnataka’s Chief Minister Siddaramaiah and Chief Justice of India DY Chandrachud at the helm. The conference, a cornerstone event for the state’s judiciary, was also graced by Karnataka Chief Justice N.V Anjaria, numerous Supreme Court judges, and a wide array of judicial officers and personnel.
Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, in his opening address, articulated his resonance with the judiciary’s mission as the paramount protector of rights and liberties. He lauded the Indian judicial system, enriched by Dr. B.R. Ambedkar’s legacy and inspired by luminaries like Buddha, Basava, and Narayana Guru, for its deep-rooted values and progressive ethos.
Chief Justice D.Y Chandrachud commenced his address with a warm greeting in Kannada, setting a tone of inclusivity and respect. His keynote speech, themed ‘Equity and Excellence for a Futuristic Judiciary,’ emphasized the critical role of district judges as the judiciary’s frontline, embodying the pursuit of justice and societal transformation.
A striking highlight from CJI Chandrachud’s address was the mention of 21.25 lakh cases processed in Karnataka’s judicial system from February 1, 2023, to March 23, 2024, mirroring the number of resolved cases—a testament to the judiciary’s efficacy deserving nationwide emulation.
Addressing the digital divide, CJI Chandrachud advocated for e-Sewa Kendras to ensure all legal practitioners have access to essential technological resources. He underscored the importance of work-life balance and stress management within the judiciary, along with the pivotal role of data in enhancing judicial operations and decision-making.
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In a notable reflection on gender inclusivity, CJI Chandrachud highlighted the encouraging representation of women in the judiciary, with Karnataka leading by example, where 44% of civil judges are women. He called for a collective effort from courts, governments, and the judiciary to foster a more inclusive environment, also stressing the need for essential infrastructure to support women litigants, lawyers, and staff.
Concluding with a poignant quote from playwright Shivram Karanth, CJI Chandrachud inspired the judicial officers to trust in their capabilities and the courage to render bold decisions, much like a bird trusts its wings over the branch it perches on.
