Chief Justice of India (CJI) Surya Kant has underscored the fundamental importance of the rule of law in preserving constitutional democracy, stating that it protects citizens from arbitrary exercises of governmental power and ensures accountability in public administration.
Delivering the keynote address at the International Institute for Democracy and Electoral Assistance (IDEA) Conference in Stockholm, Sweden, the CJI observed that the rule of law is not merely a policy instrument or governance tool but a constitutional principle that disciplines the exercise of power. He remarked that no individual should be left vulnerable to the whims of arbitrary authority.
Justice Kant emphasized that judicial independence remains one of the strongest safeguards of the rule of law. According to him, constitutional courts play a crucial role in ensuring that executive and legislative actions remain consistent with constitutional values and fundamental rights.
The Chief Justice noted that judicial review is not simply a discretionary power but a constitutional obligation entrusted to courts. He stated that courts must ensure that no exercise of public power escapes legal scrutiny and that governance remains subject to constitutional limitations.
Addressing global democratic challenges, Justice Kant highlighted the importance of institutional accountability, transparency, and public trust. He stressed that constitutional democracies can flourish only when all branches of government operate within the framework of the Constitution and respect the separation of powers.
The speech also drew attention to India's constitutional traditions and legal heritage. The CJI observed that concepts akin to the rule of law and judicial independence have deep roots in Indian legal thought and are not merely borrowed from Western legal systems.
His remarks come at a time when discussions surrounding democratic governance, constitutional accountability, and judicial oversight continue to shape legal and public discourse both in India and internationally.
The address reaffirmed the judiciary's role as the guardian of constitutional values and highlighted the continuing relevance of the rule of law in protecting individual liberties and strengthening democratic institutions.