Chief Justice of India Dhananjaya Y. Chandrachud, addressing mounting skepticism about India's judicial system, emphasized the importance of evaluating institutions like the judiciary with a nuanced perspective that recognizes both their structural resilience and capacity for self-improvement. In light of global shifts in public trust, particularly toward democratic institutions, Justice Chandrachud’s comments seek to balance critique with constructive engagement, underscoring that institutions, while not immune to criticism, often reflect foundational principles that can withstand pressures to reform without requiring radical overhauls.
The statement comes at a time when India, like other democracies worldwide, faces heightened scrutiny over the perceived efficiency and impartiality of its judiciary. While some critiques focus on delays, corruption, and opaque judicial appointments, Justice Chandrachud pointed to the inherent adaptability of judicial processes and their potential to absorb and implement necessary reforms. He noted that the judiciary’s commitment to equitable and accessible justice relies on an ongoing, responsive approach that integrates diverse voices and new technologies to manage case backlogs and streamline court processes.
Justice Chandrachud’s stance is echoed in discussions among global thought leaders who argue that institutional trust is largely contingent on an institution's ability to operate transparently and efficiently. Experts, such as those involved in the American Academy of Arts and Sciences, highlight the necessity of public trust for institutions to function effectively. They note that a fundamental distrust can impede the very operations intended to serve society, with Justice Chandrachud’s call for balanced appraisal resonating across international forums addressing democratic accountability and public confidence.