SC at forefront of shaping society’s moral fabric: Justice Surya Kant

He said “Indian Courts don’t just interpret the law as a cold command but as a living instrument of justice”, and added that the rule of law principle runs like a golden thread through the fabric of the Indian Constitution, ensuring that all citizens enjoy basic human rights.

Outlining India’s commitment to gender equality, Justice Surya Kant said, “The Supreme Court has been a vanguard in women empowerment and its vision resonates with key Commonwealth commitments, including the Ottawa Declaration on Women (1991) and the Harare Declaration (1991), both of which emphasise the empowerment of women, the protection of their rights, and the active elimination of gender-based discrimination across our societies. In this spirit, India has charted a unique and transformative path.”

Speaking on the topic ‘Democrats and Despots – Does Consensus Work?’, Justice Surya Kant said it is a “question of profound significance and complexity” which “not only probes the philosophical and practical underpinnings of politics but also challenges the boundaries of cultural understanding and human cooperation”.

Pointing to the differences between democracy and despotism, he said, “The variance between these systems raises an essential question: Can democrats and despots find common ground through consensus? Can a dialogue be forged between the freedom of democracy and the control of despotism? The answer lies in the nuanced understanding of what consensus entails. True consensus requires more than mere agreement, it demands a commitment to mutual respect and understanding.”

“As we grapple with global challenges such as climate change and economic inequality, consensus-driven approaches are crucial in crafting sustainable solutions that are just and equitable.” “One of the first steps towards this consensus is acknowledging and respecting the cultural, social, and historical contexts that shape political ideologies.”