CJI Surya Kant: Justice Must Reach the Vulnerable, Not Just Courtrooms

Chief Justice of India Surya Kant on Saturday inaugurated the first Victim Rights Centre (VRC) in Bihar, marking a significant step toward making the legal system more accessible to marginalized groups. Speaking at the launch event in Patna, CJI Kant asserted that justice must not remain confined to the walls of a courtroom but must reach those who are vulnerable, unheard, or unable to navigate the legal system on their own.

The VRC, a pioneering initiative in India, is designed to provide comprehensive support to victims of crime, including legal aid, counseling, and assistance in navigating judicial processes. CJI Kant emphasized that the centre embodies the constitutional promise of equal justice and aims to bridge the gap between the judiciary and the common citizen. He noted that many victims, especially from disadvantaged backgrounds, struggle to access legal remedies due to procedural complexities and lack of awareness.

The establishment of the VRC in Bihar is expected to serve as a model for other states, with plans to replicate it nationwide. Legal experts have welcomed the move, calling it a transformative step toward victim-centric justice. The initiative aligns with broader judicial reforms aimed at enhancing access to justice and upholding the rights of victims, and its progress will be closely monitored by policymakers and civil society organizations.