New Delhi: On the occasion of Human Rights Day, Chief Justice of India (CJI) Sanjiv Khanna shed light on the pervasive fear of the legal system among marginalised communities, describing it as a “Black Coat Syndrome.” Addressing a gathering, he emphasised the deep-rooted mistrust and apprehension these communities often feel towards the judiciary and legal processes, which undermines their access to justice and fundamental rights, report the Live Law.
CJI Khanna attributed this fear to systemic issues, including economic disparities, social prejudices, and the alienation of vulnerable sections from the judicial framework. He stressed the urgent need for reforms to bridge the gap between the legal system and marginalised populations.
“Legal institutions must strive to be more inclusive, approachable, and empathetic to the concerns of the underprivileged,” the CJI remarked. He called for proactive measures to address these challenges, including legal literacy programs, accessible legal aid, and more robust representation for disadvantaged groups.
The address highlighted the judiciary’s commitment to ensuring that justice remains not just a legal ideal but a lived reality for all citizens, irrespective of their socio-economic status. The Chief Justice urged all stakeholders to work collectively in breaking down barriers that perpetuate inequality and exclusion.
This poignant reminder on Human Rights Day reaffirms the role of the judiciary in upholding the rights of the most vulnerable and ensuring equitable access to justice for all.
