Supreme Court Justice Vikram Nath has underscored the importance of accountability within public institutions, emphasizing that with growing citizen awareness comes heightened expectations from these bodies. He articulated these thoughts during a lecture hosted by the Supreme Court Advocates-on-Record Association (SCAORA) on August 6, themed “The Future of Justice Delivery: Innovation, Inclusion, and Integrity.”
Accountability and Awareness
Justice Nath remarked on the evolving awareness among citizens regarding their rights and the institutions that govern them. This awareness, he stated, demands that institutions justify the authority vested in them. “We are experiencing unprecedented times,” he noted, “People today are more aware of their rights and the institutions that govern them. This growing awareness brings with it a quiet weight, raising expectations that are rightly so. If citizens are expected to respect institutions, then those institutions must be accountable for the power entrusted to them.” Justice Nath emphasized that openness to questioning is a sign of strength for these institutions, not a threat.
The Role of Justice and Inclusion
Justice Nath further elaborated that the principles of justice should be evident in the experiences of those seeking redress from the courts, rather than being confined to judgments or legal texts. He asserted the importance of these principles being reflected in the lived experiences of individuals within the judicial process, highlighting that the delivery of justice is a collective responsibility involving judges, lawyers, and court staff.
Technological Innovations in Justice
Justice V Mohana addressed the role of technology in the judiciary, cautioning that while technology, such as AI-assisted transcription, can enhance access to justice, it must be used under human oversight and align with constitutional values. She emphasized that the future of justice delivery should prioritize accessibility and trustworthiness over mere technological speed.
Innovation, Integrity, and Inclusion
Justice Abha Nayar Patel of the Supreme Court of Zambia contributed her insights, advocating for a harmonious integration of innovation, integrity, and inclusion in justice delivery. She warned that technology, if not scrutinized, could perpetuate existing inequalities and stressed the need for safeguards to ensure fairness. Justice Patel advocated for judicial and professional standards to govern the use of technology in courts, suggesting that integrity will be secured through the governance of change rather than resistance to it.
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The lecture served as a platform for these judicial leaders to discuss the evolving landscape of justice delivery, highlighting the critical balance between innovation and the core values of justice.
