A Resounding Call for Justice: Ex-CJI Chandrachud's Plea for Inclusion Sparks Immediate Government Action

In a powerful and poignant address that resonated through Mumbai's legal circles, former Chief Justice of India, Y.V. Chandrachud, issued a fervent call for the greater inclusion of persons with disabilities within the judiciary and the broader legal profession. Speaking at a significant event, he emphasized that the path to a truly equitable justice system lies in the synergistic application of technology and profound empathy, crafting an environment that is genuinely accessible to all.

The former CJI's compelling remarks were delivered during the launch of 'In the Glow of a Compassionate Sun: A Memoir', a moving autobiography penned by the resilient advocate H.R.

Suresh. The event, meticulously organized by the High Court Bar Association (HCBA) and the Maharashtra and Goa Bar Council, served as a poignant backdrop for a crucial discussion on accessibility and equal opportunity in law. Advocate Suresh's memoir chronicles his remarkable journey as a legal professional navigating life with a locomotor disability, offering a firsthand account of the challenges and triumphs that define his career.

What followed Mr.

Chandrachud's stirring plea was an extraordinary and immediate response from the state government. Maharashtra Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, present at the event, demonstrated an exceptional commitment to the cause. He promptly announced the formation of a special, high-level committee specifically tasked with addressing the critical issues raised by the former CJI and exemplified by Mr.

Suresh's life story.

This newly established committee will be a powerful instrument for change, headed by the Chief Secretary and comprising vital representatives including the Advocate General, as well as senior officials from the law and social justice departments. Its core mandate is to conduct a thorough study and propose concrete measures to transform court premises, legal institutions, and the very fabric of the legal profession, making them undeniably more accessible and inclusive for persons with disabilities.

This swift governmental action underscores a significant paradigm shift towards practical implementation rather than mere rhetoric.

Adding to the chorus of influential voices, Chief Justice of the Bombay High Court, Devendra Kumar Upadhyaya, further underscored the imperative of empathy and the pressing need for a comprehensive, holistic policy to guide these inclusion efforts.

Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis also lauded Mr. Suresh's incredible resilience and dedication, noting the profound inspiration his journey offers to countless others. The event was graced by numerous other distinguished judges and legal luminaries, all witnessing a pivotal moment where advocacy met decisive action.

This landmark event has not only brought the often-overlooked issue of disability inclusion in the legal system to the forefront but has also set a precedent for immediate, result-oriented government response.

It signifies a collective societal commitment to fostering a justice system that truly embodies its ideals of fairness, equality, and accessibility for every individual, ensuring that talent and dedication are never hindered by physical barriers.