Chief Justice of India (CJI) Surya Kant has assured the country’s youth that the Supreme Court remains committed to protecting their rights and delivering justice, stating that the doors of the apex court are “open 24 hours a day” for every citizen. His remarks came amid nationwide student protests over alleged examination irregularities and criticism of the judiciary’s handling of petitions related to the demonstrations.
Speaking after questions were raised over the Supreme Court’s initial response to petitions concerning alleged police action against student protesters, the CJI clarified that the court had never refused to hear the matter. He emphasised that every grievance would be considered in accordance with the law and established judicial procedures.
“Supreme Court Doors Are Open 24 Hours”
Addressing concerns over access to justice, CJI Surya Kant said the judiciary remains available to every citizen at all times.
“I would want to assure every citizen and especially the youth of the country that if any injustice has been caused to any person, the Supreme Court will hear the grievance within the bounds of law and the prescribed judicial procedure,” he said.
Emphasising the court’s commitment to justice, the Chief Justice added, “The doors of the Supreme Court are open 24 hours a day for every citizen. The court will not allow injustice to prevail.”
Clarifies Court Never Refused to Hear the Matter
The Chief Justice rejected reports suggesting that the Supreme Court had declined to hear petitions related to the student protests.
He explained that, at the time the controversy first emerged, no properly filed writ petition had been placed before the court. Instead, only a representation seeking urgent intervention had been submitted, which did not meet the procedural requirements for judicial consideration.
According to the CJI, once formal petitions were filed in accordance with Supreme Court rules, the bench agreed to list them for hearing.
Importance of Judicial Procedure
Surya Kant stressed that every case must follow the legal process before it can be heard by the Supreme Court.
He noted that the judiciary cannot bypass established procedures, regardless of the public importance of an issue. Petitions must be filed in the prescribed format before they can be listed and heard by the court.
The CJI said adherence to judicial procedure ensures fairness and consistency in the administration of justice.
Hearing on Student Protest Petitions
The clarification comes after fresh petitions alleging police excesses during student protests were formally filed before the Supreme Court.
A bench headed by Chief Justice Surya Kant agreed to hear the petitions on Monday after they were properly instituted. The pleas seek judicial scrutiny of the police action during demonstrations linked to demands for examination reforms and accountability over alleged paper leaks.
The development followed criticism of the court after earlier oral requests for immediate intervention were not entertained.
CJI Responds to Public Criticism
The Chief Justice also addressed media reports surrounding his earlier courtroom observations, saying his remarks had been taken out of context.
He maintained that it was incorrect to suggest that the Supreme Court was unwilling to hear matters concerning students or public interest. Instead, he reiterated that the court remains accessible to anyone who follows the prescribed legal process.
His clarification sought to reassure citizens that the judiciary remains independent and committed to protecting constitutional rights.
Judiciary’s Commitment to Justice
Surya Kant said the judiciary is always prepared to address the problems and suffering of the people within the framework of the Constitution and the law.
He emphasised that the Supreme Court would continue to examine every legitimate grievance fairly and impartially, particularly when fundamental rights are involved.
The Chief Justice’s remarks underline the judiciary’s role as the guardian of constitutional rights while balancing the need to follow established legal procedures.
Focus Shifts to Upcoming Hearing
With the petitions now listed before the Supreme Court, attention has shifted to the upcoming hearing, where the court is expected to examine allegations related to police action against student protesters.
CJI Surya Kant’s assurance that the Supreme Court’s doors are open “24 hours a day” aims to reinforce public confidence in the judicial process. While emphasising the importance of procedural compliance, he reaffirmed that no citizen would be denied access to justice merely because of the nature of their grievance. As the case proceeds, the hearing is expected to be closely watched by students, legal experts, and political observers alike.