Courts subservient only to the might of the Constitution and no other authority: CJI Chandrachud

Chief Justice Chandrachud emphasizes courts' duty to uphold the Constitution, deliver fair justice, and address climate change concerns.

Chief Justice of India DY Chandrachud on July 2 said courts should bow to the might of no other authority except the Constitution and serve no one but litigants.

“The foundation of a court must be sound — both in its structural and philosophical capacity. It must subserve no might but the Constitution and be in service of no one but the litigants. Our courts are not merely sights of sovereign power but are also essential public service providers,” the Chief Justice noted.

The Chief Justice warned judges against delivering “rough, ready and handy justice”, but to cherish the rule of law and procedural guarantees.

Chief Justice Chandrachud said climate change could no longer be ignored while referring to the intense heat waves followed by deluge suffered by the national capital.

“This year Delhi experienced the hottest recorded weather. We have experienced two heat waves followed by record breaking rain in a single day. Our infrastructure must reflect the reality we live… One crucial step is to incorporate a green lifestyle into our daily lives, which includes reducing carbon emissions,” the Chief Justice said at the foundation stone laying ceremony of new court buildings at Karkardooma, Shastri Park and Rohini.

The Chief Justice’s concerns about the adverse effects of climate change is reflected in a recent Supreme Court judgment.

The judgment had recognised the right against the adverse effects of climate change as a distinct fundamental and human right in the Constitution.