New Delhi: Supreme Court judge Justice Dr Dhananjay Yashwant Chandrachud has made important remarks amidst the voices being raised about the misuse of many laws including sedition in the country. He has said that no criminal law, including the Anti-Terrorism Act, should be misused to suppress dissent or harassment of citizens. Justice Chandrachud expressed these views on Monday night while addressing the India-US Joint Summer Conference on Indo-US Legal Relations.
Justice Chandrachud said that our courts must ensure that they remain the first line of defense against deprivation of liberty to the citizens. The loss of freedom is too great even for a day. We must always be mindful of deep systemic issues in our decisions. India and America are in different corners of the world, but still share a deep social, cultural and economic ties.
Justice Chandrachud said that America is at the forefront of promoting freedom, freedom of speech and expression and religious peace. India being the oldest and largest democracy represents the ideals of a multicultural, pluralistic society. The Indian constitution also focuses on a deep commitment and respect for human rights. The influence of America on Indian jurisprudence cannot be underestimated. It has contributed to the heart and soul of the Indian Constitution. The only example of American influence is on the right to protection of life and personal liberty under Article 21 of the Constitution of India.
