New Delhi, Aug 26: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday highlighted the abrogation of Article 370 of the Indian Constitution as a significant example of constitutional integration, according to a report by the Bar and Bench.
In his speech, he also defended the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA), describing it as a “humane law” that aligns with national interests and upholds judicial principles.
“Abrogation of Article 370 is an example of constitutional integration. An example of a humane law such as CAA is in front of us. On issues such as these, in the national interest, usual justice is something that our court judgments explicitly state. From lower to Supreme Court, on issues such as this, a nation first principle has been adopted,” he said.
Modi’s remarks were delivered during the concluding ceremony of the Rajasthan High Court’s platinum jubilee celebrations in Jodhpur.
Modi emphasized the need for reforming India’s justice delivery system, pointing out the complexities that currently hinder access to justice. He advocated for simplifying legal procedures and underscored the importance of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), which has replaced the Indian Penal Code (IPC).
“Access to justice is always simple and straight but procedures complicate it. We should strive to simplify it. We have completely repealed all colonial laws. After so many years of independence, we adopted Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita in place of the Indian Penal Code (IPC). Justice in place of penalty is the core thought behind Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita. BNS frees us from the shackles of colonialism,” he said.
The Prime Minister also provided an overview of the advancements made in modernizing the judiciary. He noted that over 18,000 courts across the country have been computerized, and more than 3,000 court complexes and 1,200 jails have been equipped with video conferencing facilities. These technological upgrades are part of the government’s broader efforts to enhance the efficiency and accessibility of the judicial system.
Additionally, Modi reiterated his support for a Uniform Civil Code (UCC), a topic he first addressed on August 15. He stressed that the government’s firm stance on the UCC is bolstered by longstanding judicial advocacy, which he believes helps to reinforce public trust in the judiciary.
“On issues of national integration, this stand of the judiciary only bolsters the trust of the common man in the judiciary,” he added.
