Recent events in Bangladesh remind us of the value of freedom and independence: CJI

New Delhi: Chief Justice DY Chandrachud on Thursday stressed the importance of freedom and independence, noting that recent events in neighbouring Bangladesh were a reminder of the value of these rights.

Addressing reporters after hoisting the national flag on the Supreme Court premises, Chandrachud said Independence Day reminds us of the duties of the people of the country towards each other and towards the nation in realising all the values ​​of the Constitution.

“What is happening today in Bangladesh, for example, is a clear reminder of how valuable freedom is to us. It is very easy to take independence and autonomy for granted, but it is important to understand the stories of the past to remind us how important these things are,” he said.

The Chief Justice of India's remarks came amid growing concern in India over widespread attacks on Bangladesh's Hindu minority after Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina resigned and fled the country on August 5 following weeks of violent unrest.

CJI Chandrachud said many lawyers had given up their legal profession and dedicated themselves to the cause of the nation.

“On the occasion of Independence Day, I wish all of you, the members of our journalistic core, a very happy Independence Day. Through you, I wish the rest of the nation, especially those related to the judiciary, a very happy Independence Day,” he told reporters.

“This is a day to remember the duties we have to each other and to the nation,” Chandrachud said.

The Chief Justice of India said the work of the courts reflects the struggle of ordinary Indians as they struggle through the ups and downs of their daily lives.

He said a modern justice system requires an accessible and inclusive infrastructure.

Indian Law Minister Arjun Ram Meghwal was also present at the flag raising and stressed that the constitution is above all else.

“The Chief Justice of India (CJI) said a few days ago that the Constitution is supreme. When the legislature, executive and judiciary internalise it, India will be a developed nation,” the minister said.

President of the Supreme Court Bar Association and Senior Advocate Kapil Sibal recalled the words of first Prime Minister Jawahar Lal Nehru and said this is the freedom that the country cherishes.

“On August 15, he said, 'I am the first servant of the Indian people.' That is the spirit in which we wanted to defend our freedom. We need to be free, we need equality, we need to get rid of poverty,” Sibal said.