Chief Justice of India Justice Surya Kant on Sunday said that judicial complexes should function with the same spirit of service as hospitals, emphasizing that people approach courts with hope for justice and relief. He made the remarks while addressing a legal literacy camp in Mandi, Himachal Pradesh, where he also laid the foundation stone for a ₹152-crore judicial court complex in the presence of Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu.
Speaking at the event, Justice Surya Kant highlighted the role of courts as institutions that must respond to people’s expectations for justice. Drawing a comparison with healthcare institutions, he said that just as patients visit hospitals with hope, citizens approach courts seeking justice and relief, and therefore the judicial system should operate with the same sense of public service.
He also referred to the cultural and spiritual significance of the region, noting that Mandi is known as “Chhoti Kashi,” where millions of devotees visit with deep faith. In that context, he said that the foundation of a “temple of justice” was being laid in the town and expressed hope that the court complex would soon be completed.
Justice Kant further underlined the need to increase awareness of constitutional rights and duties. Referring to the state’s natural heritage, he said Himachal Pradesh has preserved its natural beauty and that people must also be made aware of their fundamental rights. He stressed that similar awareness programmes should be organized at the grassroots level so that citizens also develop a stronger understanding of their fundamental duties.
The Chief Justice also spoke about his personal connection with the state, saying that the love and respect shown by people had brought him back to Himachal Pradesh and that he felt honoured by their affection.
During the event, Justice Kant laid the foundation stone for the Mandi judicial court complex, which will be constructed at a cost of ₹152 crore. The proposed complex will come up on 9.6 hectares of land and will consist of four blocks, designed to provide improved infrastructure and facilities for judges, lawyers, and the public.
Addressing the gathering, Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu said the state government remains committed to ensuring access to justice and rights for every citizen. He stated that the government is pursuing inclusive development and social justice in line with the spirit of the Constitution.
Sukhu said that the government’s focus on education, healthcare, social security, and transparent administration aims to ensure equal opportunities for all citizens while strengthening the foundations of democracy.
He also highlighted certain policy measures of the state government, stating that the legal age of marriage for girls has been increased to 21 years to ensure they enjoy opportunities equal to boys. In addition, he said the government has extended equal rights to daughters in ancestral property up to 150 bighas, a benefit that was earlier limited to sons.
Chief Justice of the Himachal Pradesh High Court, Justice Gurmeet Singh Sandhawalia, also addressed the gathering and said the initiative reflects collective efforts to ensure that justice reaches every individual. He noted that justice should not remain confined to courtrooms but must also include awareness of rights, access to legal aid, and timely assistance to citizens.
