New Delhi: Chief Justice of India (CJI) Surya Kant on Wednesday underscored the indispensable role of the legal fraternity in safeguarding constitutional values and strengthening the rule of law, asserting that only the Bar has the power to rescue the “invisible victims” of the justice system.
Speaking at a Constitution Day event organised by the Supreme Court Bar Association (SCBA), the CJI said that lawyers are not only essential partners in constitutional adjudication but must also take proactive steps to promote the spirit of the Constitution in society. This, he emphasised, includes extending legal aid to vulnerable groups and aligning professional conduct with the ideals embedded in the Directive Principles of State Policy.
“When I speak of the ‘invisible victims’ of the judicial system, it is my sincere belief that only the Bar can rescue them from such agony,” Justice Kant said. “Your perspectives matter profoundly, and the seriousness with which you engage in your craft directly influences the transformation of our constitutional future.”
He reiterated that the Constitution’s guardianship rests not with a single institution but with a “consortium of minds and consciences,” in which the Bar and Bench serve as equal and indispensable partners. Courts may be the sentinels of the Constitution, he noted, but lawyers act as “torchbearers” who illuminate the path toward justice.
Justice Kant said the judiciary has consistently recognised the Bar’s crucial role in maintaining constitutional integrity. “When we celebrate the moment when the people of India gifted unto themselves their most fundamental covenant, it is important to acknowledge that the Bar fortifies the rule of law and upholds the sanctity of our Constitution,” he added.
SCBA president and senior advocate Vikas Singh, addressing the gathering, said the legal system must ensure robust law-making, effective justice delivery, and accessible legal remedies for the common citizen. Raising concerns about the rising influence of money and muscle power in elections, he said individuals with criminal backgrounds increasingly find their way into Parliament.
Solicitor General Tushar Mehta highlighted the structural resilience of the Constitution, which keeps the judiciary, executive, and legislature independent yet balanced through internal checks.
Foreign Judges Join Constitution Day Celebrations
The event also saw an international presence, with top judicial dignitaries from several countries attending the proceedings at the Supreme Court. Among the visiting guests were Bhutan’s Chief Justice Lyonpo Norbu Tshering, Kenya’s Chief Justice Martha K. Koome, Mauritius’ Chief Justice Rehana Bibi Mungly-Gulbul, and Sri Lanka’s Chief Justice Preethi Padman Surasena.
Senior judges from the apex courts of Kenya, Nepal, Sri Lanka, and Malaysia were also in attendance.
Welcoming the dignitaries, CJI Kant noted the significance of their presence on the occasion. “They are here to grace the Constitution Day celebration in the Supreme Court, where the Honourable President of India has graciously agreed to be the guest,” he said, adding that it was a meaningful coincidence that he had taken oath as CJI on November 24.
“On behalf of the Supreme Court of India and all members of the Bar, I welcome all our guests,” he said.
The Constitution Day celebrations continue to highlight India’s commitment to democratic values, judicial independence, and global judicial cooperation.
