Reflections on the Indian Judiciary: Upholding Faith or Questioning Integrity?

As a member of this vibrant and resilient Republic, it's challenging to maintain faith in the Indian judiciary when one witnesses certain ongoings that seem disconnected from the ideals of justice and fairness. It would be overly harsh to term these issues as a 'loss of faith' as it overshadows the genuine efforts of many dedicated legal professionals. However, at times, it feels like the judicial system is failing to meet the expectations of the common citizen by interpreting and upholding the law in a manner that resonates with the principles of justice and equity.

Understanding Judicial Rulings – A Distorted Perception

The masses, with their seething voices, often struggle to comprehend the nuances of the judgments delivered by the Apex Court. It's not uncommon for such rulings to be delivered in a manner that seems convoluted and lacking in clarity, with complicated legalese that may alienate the common populace. A common person would question why an accused is granted bail by multiple bench formations on a single day when the person remains in a custody remand, not established as guilty, for an extended period. Such practices may undermine the perception of the judiciary's integrity and fairness.

Corruption and Irregular Practices Within the Judicial System

A recent experience at a court further fueled these concerns. Observations made at a courthouse highlighted the presence of unethical practices, such as the collection of bribes. In a setting where a judge should be the embodiment of the law, it was observed that an assistant usher, who was responsible for signing documents, collected 100 Rupee notes from petitioners. This occurred even in the presence of a judge who appeared to either ignore or be complicit in these irregularities. The gasping question that emerges is whether such a system, tarnished by corruption, can truly uphold the rule of law?

Strained Relationships and Legal Exploitations

The dynamics within the family and marriage are another point of concern. The legal system often seems more intent on controlling and exploiting these intimate relationships rather than providing robust support for maintaining them. A wife’s 'freedom' is seen as a pretext for legal extortion, with husbands labeled as default criminals, and wives perceived as innocent princesses unless they can prove their worth. This approach to legal proceedings appears more about finance and manipulation than justice.

It is crucial to recognize that judges are not akin to gods, saints, or even ideal human beings. They are often seen to take advantage of their position to insert themselves into the cultural and familial fabric of society. The backlog of cases stands in stark contrast to the creation of countless false cases. The ultimate verdict, delivered after 10 to 25 years, often reflects the judges' personal biases rather than a fair and impartial review of the evidence.

Conclusion: A Call for Accountability and Reform

While the Indian judiciary plays a vital role in upholding the legal system, there is a pressing need for reform. A judiciary that is seen to be just, fair, and impartial is essential for the trust of the public and the functioning of democratic institutions. It is unacceptable for the system to be manipulated for personal gains, to the detriment of the individuals seeking justice and the families in distress, ultimately affecting the cultural and social fabric of the nation.

The judiciary's role is not just to deliver justice but to ensure that justice is seen to be done. It is hoped that through greater transparency, accountability, and ethical oversight, the Indian judiciary can restore the faith of the people, thereby elevating the administration of justice to the standards expected of a free and fair society.