The High Court of Chhattisgarh successfully celebrated Constitution Day on November 26, 2024 at High Court Auditorium with a special program themed “Constitution: Charting the Path to a Just Society.”
The programme commenced with ceremonial lighting of lamp by Chief Guest, Hon’ble Mr. Justice Ramesh Sinha, Chief Justice, High Court of Chhattisgarh.
The event was also graced with esteemed presence of Hon’ble Mr. Justice Sanjay K. Agrawal, Hon’ble Mr. Justice Sanjay S. Agrawal and Hon’ble Judges from High Court of Chhattisgarh.
Hon’ble Mr. Justice Ramesh Sinha, Chief Justice, High Court of Chhattisgarh, in his motivating address, speaking on the theme “Constitution: Charting the Path to a Just Society,” eloquently highlighted the transformative power of the Constitution and its pivotal role in fostering justice, equality, and inclusivity in society.
Hon’ble The Chief Justice commenced by reflecting on the significance of Constitution Day, commemorating the adoption of the Indian Constitution on November 26, 1949. “Our Constitution is more than a legal framework; it is a moral compass guiding us towards justice,” he remarked. His Lordship emphasized the Constitution’s commitment to fundamental rights, describing them as the “cornerstone of a just society” that empowers individuals to live with dignity and resist oppression.
Hon’ble The Chief Justice during his address emphasized that the quest for a just society requires more than the recognition of rights. It calls for proactive engagement and a collective responsibility to eliminate barriers that hinder social justice. Hon’ble The Chief Justice expressed that “we must actively participate in creating a society that uplifts the marginalized, protects the rights of the downtrodden, and fosters inclusivity.”
Addressing the challenges in achieving a just society, Hon’ble The Chief Justice emphasized the need for proactive citizen engagement and State accountability and reiterated the importance of Article 39A, which guarantees free legal aid to the underprivileged, stating, “Legal Aid to Poor must not be Poor Legal Aid.” His Lordship underscored that providing effective legal aid is a constitutional obligation, not charity, and essential for bridging societal inequities. Hon’ble The Chief Justice also discussed the significance of the Directive Principles of State Policy, calling them a roadmap for reducing inequalities and ensuring collective welfare. His Lordship stressed that achieving social justice requires a concerted effort from all stakeholders, including citizens, judiciary, and government institutions.
Hon’ble The Chief Justice concluded with a powerful call to action and expressed that:
“The Constitution of India is our collective promise for a just society. By upholding its principles and striving towards its ideals, we can ensure that justice does not remain an abstract ideal but becomes a lived reality for every citizen.”
Special Guest of the event, Hon’ble Shri Justice Sanjay K. Agrawal during his address emphasized upon Constitution’s role in upholding the rule of law and protecting citizens’ rights. Distinguished Guest, Hon’ble Shri Justice Sanjay S. Agrawal shared his perspectives on the Constitutional mandate of free and compulsory education for children and role of State in ensuring rights of equality among citizens. Mrs. Fouzia Mirza, Sr. Advocate, High Court of Chhattisgarh and Mrs. Surya Kawalkar Dangi, Advocate, High Court of Chhattisgarh also delivered speeches highlighting the significance of the Constitution in shaping a just society.
The event was also graced with the presence of Hon’ble Mr. Justice Parth Prateem Sahu, Hon’ble Mrs. Justice Rajani Dubey, Hon’ble Mr. Justice Naresh Kumar Chandravanshi, Hon’ble Mr. Justice Deepak Kumar Tiwari, Hon’ble Mr. Justice Sachin Singh Rajput, Hon’ble Mr. Justice Rakesh Mohan Pandey, Hon’ble Mr. Justice Radhakishan Agrawal, Hon’ble Mr. Justice Sanjay Kumar Jaiswal, Hon’ble Mr. Justice Ravindra Kumar Agrawal, Hon’ble Mr. Justice Arvind Kumar Verma, Hon’ble Mr. Justice Bibhu Datta Guru and Hon’ble Mr. Justice Amitendra Kishore Prasad. The event was further participated by Senior Advocates, Add. Advocate General, Officer Bearers and Members of Bar, Registrar General and Member Officers of Registry.
The event concluded with the National Anthem, leaving the audience inspired to uphold the Constitution’s values and work towards a just and equitable future.
