CJI Surya Kant Says Equal Access To Law Is First Step Toward Equality In Russia Speech
CJI says equal legal access essential for equality.
Chief Justice of India Surya Kant, while addressing the XIV St Petersburg International Legal Forum in Russia, emphasized that true equality begins with ensuring equal access to the law. Speaking on Wednesday, he underlined that access to justice should not remain a procedural formality but must translate into the real and effective enforcement of rights for all individuals.
The CJI stated that the core challenge in achieving equality before law is not the absence of legal provisions, but the practical barriers that prevent their uniform application. He pointed to geographical, social, and economic disparities as the most significant obstacles that continue to limit access to justice, particularly for marginalized sections of society.
Highlighting the role of constitutional frameworks, Justice Surya Kant said the Indian Constitution introduced a transformative promise of equality, dignity, and justice at its inception. However, he noted that the real challenge has always been ensuring that these guarantees are accessible across India’s vast diversity, including remote regions, linguistic differences, and socio-economic divides.
Also Read: Former LS Secretary General Says Anti-Defection Law Does Not Recognise Separate Bloc
He further stressed that the Indian judiciary has consistently adopted an expansive interpretation of constitutional rights to bridge these gaps. According to him, courts in India have worked to ensure that access to law is not merely technical in nature but serves as a foundational principle of governance aimed at eliminating discrimination and inequality.
In his address, the CJI also reflected on the broader global legal landscape, stating that many countries in the Global South continue to face challenges rooted in colonial histories, poverty, and institutional development. He added that such nations are often subjected to uneven scrutiny compared to more powerful states, despite similar or greater compliance challenges within those developed jurisdictions.
Also Read: CJI Surya Kant Calls Cyber Criminals “Parasites”, Denies Bail In Cyber Fraud Case
