Chief Justice of India Justice Surya Kant inaugurated the new Tower of Justice in Gurugram on Sunday, emphasizing the urgent need for women-friendly judicial infrastructure. He stated that such facilities are essential, not optional, for all new court complexes, urging inclusion of separate bar rooms and childcare facilities for women advocates.
During the ceremony, held at a seven-acre site near Rajiv Chowk, the Chief Justice highlighted the transformation of Gurugram from an agricultural area to an industrial center,which has resulted in significant increase in legal disputes . "Just as a patient reaching a hospital is given first-aid, a consumer of justice coming to court must be given first-aid in the form of basic amenities — seating,drinking water and washrooms," he remarked.
Justice Kant pointed to a recent survey by the Supreme Court Bar Association,revealing that many judicial complexes across various states lack basic amenities for women lawyers. He insisted, "Women advocates are not being provided the facilities that should be given to them in many States. It would not be right to call it a modern court complex without them." His remarks underscore the ongoing challenges faced by women in the legal profession.
The new Gurugram complex features 55 modern courtrooms, an increase from the 45 available in the previous building. It also includes a bank,post office,bar library, mediation center, and other amenities designed to enhance the experience of litigants and legal professionals alike . The Chief Justice expressed optimism that the updated facilities would improve the efficiency of legal proceedings.
Justice Kant recalled his earlier involvement in the project,having performed the bhoomi puja for the complex in January 2017 as part of the Punjab and Haryana High Court Building Committee. He described the inauguration as a “historic” and “memorable” occasion.
Technology was another focal point of Chief Justice's address. He asserted that effective use of technology is vital for the swift resolution of cases, and such advancements can only be fully realized with adequate infrastructure. He expressed hope that the new courtrooms and conference rooms would leverage technology to enhance judicial processes .
In addition to Gurugram complex,Justice Kant laid the foundation stone for new court facilities in Punhana and Tauru subdivisions of Nuh district. He advocated for integrated court complexes that house various types of courts—family, labor, and environmental—under one roof,a model he believes would benefit both lawyers and litigants.
During the event, several dignitaries were present, including Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini, Union Law Minister Arjun Ram Meghwal, and Union Urban Affairs Minister Manohar Lal. Their attendance underscored the collaborative effort between the judiciary and government to enhance the legal framework in the region.
Justice Kant's push for improved judicial infrastructure reflects a broader commitment to ensuring that courts instill confidence in the public regarding the delivery of justice. As legal landscape evolves, emphasis on creating supportive environments for all advocates, particularly women,remains a critical priority.
