Chief Justice of India (CJI) NV Ramana on Saturday said that the Constitution provides separation of power among the three organs of the state, and one should be mindful of the ‘Lakshman Rekha’ while discharging their duty.

Addressing the Joint Conference of Chief Ministers and Chief Justices of High Courts, the CJI Ramana said, “Constitution provides separation of power among three organs and the harmonious function between three organs strengthens democracy. While discharging our duty, we should be mindful of Lakshman Rekha.”

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The CJI also voiced his concern over the misuse of Public Interest Litigations (PIL).

“PILs have now turned into “Personal Interest Litigation” and are used to settle personal scores,” he said, adding that courts are now highly cautious in entertaining the same.

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The CJI said deliberate inaction by governments despite judicial pronouncements is not good for the health of democracy.

Speaking at the event, Prime Minister Narendra Modi also underlined the need to introduce local languages in the courts.

“We need to encourage local languages in courts. This will not only increase the confidence of common citizens in the justice system but they will feel more connected to it,” PM Modi said.

PM Modi urged the Chief Ministers to repeal outdated laws to make the delivery of justice easier.

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“In 2015, we identified about 1,800 laws which had become irrelevant. Out of these, 1,450 such laws of the Centre were abolished. But, only 75 such laws have been abolished by the states,” he said.

PM Modi also stressed the need for a digital judicial system which can empower citizens.

“To strengthen citizens, technology has become an important tool. Likewise, our judicial infrastructure needs to be digitalised too. Tech-friendly human resources play an important role in integrating Digital India with the nation’s growth story,” PM Modi added.