NEW DELHI, Mar 6: Chief Justice of India, Sanjiv Khanna, emphasized the critical role of criminal laws in society during a recent event. He expressed his hope that more young lawyers would consider pursuing criminal litigation as their primary choice.
CJI Khanna made these remarks at the unveiling of “Ratanlal & Dhirajlal’s Law of Crimes: A comprehensive commentary on the Bhartiya Nyaya Sanhita 2023,” which was edited by former Chief Justice U U Lalit. The launch took place in the auditorium of the Delhi High Court, attended by former CJI Lalit, Minister of State for Law and Justice Arjun Ram Meghwal, Attorney General R. Venkataramani, and various judges from the Supreme Court and High Court.
CJI Khanna highlighted that criminal law significantly affects individual liberties, social stability, and the balance between state authority and personal freedoms, especially regarding arrests and detentions. He observed that many law students seem reluctant to pursue criminal law, despite the predominant nature of criminal cases in district courts. He urged that we should not overlook the importance of criminal law, encouraging young lawyers to view it as a primary career choice rather than a fallback option.
He also noted that the future of criminal jurisprudence would be evidence-based, moving away from unverified claims about behavior and social dynamics. “We must allow evidence to drive criminal law forward, as data can provide a clear narrative,” he stated.
Justice Lalit discussed the rigorous review process the book underwent before its approval, stating, “This is my first attempt, but certainly not the last. This project has been very close to my heart.”
Delhi High Court Chief Justice D. K. Upadhyaya shared insights on the Bhartiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) and remarked on its timely arrival. He emphasized the need for a justice system that is accessible, effective, and responsive to the evolving needs of society, particularly for vulnerable individuals navigating the system.
“Our criminal justice framework has long required simplification, modernization, and understanding of the realities faced by our citizens,” he added. (Agencies)
