Courts Must Intervene When Constitutional Rights Are Violated: CJI Surya Kant

Speaking at the NHRC Foundation Day event, the Chief Justice of India stresses institutional accountability, protection of vulnerable communities and stronger mechanisms to safeguard human rights

(SDNA) New Delhi: Chief Justice of India (CJI) Justice Surya Kant has underscored the responsibility of courts to intervene whenever citizens’ constitutional rights are violated. Addressing the Foundation Day event of the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC), he highlighted the importance of judicial institutions and human rights bodies in ensuring justice, dignity and equality for every individual.

Justice Surya Kant emphasised that human rights extend far beyond legal principles. They are closely connected to essential aspects of everyday life, including access to healthcare, food, housing, livelihood and a clean environment. He called upon human rights institutions to go beyond examining individual complaints and identify systemic shortcomings that allow violations to persist.

NHRC Records More Than 2.4 Million Complaints in 33 Years

Highlighting the commission’s work over the past 33 years, the Chief Justice noted that the NHRC had registered more than 2.4 million complaints and disposed of over 2.3 million cases during this period.

He also referred to the launch of the ‘NHRC India’ mobile application, intended to make it easier for citizens to submit complaints and track their progress. Such digital initiatives can help improve accessibility and enable people to approach the commission more conveniently.

Protecting Those Who Struggle to Access Justice

Justice Surya Kant stressed that human rights institutions must pay particular attention to people who face barriers in approaching courts or effectively presenting their grievances. He described the commission’s role as an important safeguard for the promises enshrined in the Constitution.

He also highlighted the significance of taking suo motu cognisance of matters where circumstances warrant intervention, enabling authorities to address potential violations even when affected individuals are unable to raise their concerns effectively.

Vulnerable Communities Need Stronger Safeguards

The Chief Justice called for particular attention to the rights of marginalised communities, undertrial prisoners, migrant workers, senior citizens, persons with disabilities and women. These groups may face additional social, economic or institutional barriers that make access to justice more difficult.

His message highlighted the need for accountability, institutional sensitivity and effective remedies wherever human rights are threatened.

Justice Surya Kant’s remarks reinforced a fundamental principle of constitutional democracy: rights must not remain confined to legal documents or formal assurances. Their real value lies in ensuring that every citizen can live with dignity, security and equality, with meaningful judicial and institutional intervention whenever those rights are violated.