Supreme Court ‘Needs to Change’: Judge Calls for More Democratic Structure
Supreme Court judge AS Oka has called for reform in the court’s structure, arguing that its current, Chief Justice-centric model needs to evolve. Speaking at his farewell event organized by the Supreme Court Bar Association on Friday, Justice Oka, who retired after 21 years and nine months on the bench, suggested that this change could be on the horizon with the appointment of the new Chief Justice, BR Gavai.
High Courts vs. Supreme Court
Justice Oka pointed out a key difference between the Supreme Court and the High Courts, noting that High Courts operate more democratically through committees, while the Supreme Court is heavily influenced by the Chief Justice of India. He stated, “The high courts function through committees, while the Supreme Court is Chief Justice of India-centric. It needs to change. You will see this change with the new CJI.”
He expressed optimism about the new Chief Justice, saying, “I am very happy that Chief Justice Sanjiv Khanna (who retired on May 13) took us forward on the path of transparency. He took decisions after taking every judge of the Supreme Court into confidence. Justice Gavai has democratic values in his blood.”
More Than Just the CJI
Justice Oka also highlighted other areas where the judiciary could improve, emphasizing the need to pay more attention to trial courts and the common man. He lamented the backlog of cases in trial and district courts, stating, “We should also think about trial courts and the common man. There are too many cases pending in our trial and district courts… Never call a trial court a subordinate court. This is against constitutional values… It is a difficult task to punish someone after 20 years.”
A Life of Service
Reflecting on his time as a judge, Justice Oka described the unique experience of dedicating his life to serving justice. He acknowledged the sacrifices involved but emphasized the immense satisfaction derived from upholding the law and the Constitution. He stated, “When you join the judiciary, you may not get that income, but the work satisfaction you get cannot be compared to the income of a lawyer.”
Justice Oka concluded his farewell address by reaffirming his commitment to justice, saying, “Once you become a judge, only the Constitution and conscience govern you… In my long innings as a judge, I have never given a dissenting judgment.”
