‘A strong judiciary is key to free society’

A two-day seminar on 'Strengthening democracy: Role of Judiciary', organised by non-profit organisation Dastak, began in the city on Sunday. Speakers on the first day suggested several measures for the speedy dispensation of justice and ensuring the freedom of the judiciary. They also discussed other related issues such as corruption in the courts and need for greater transparency in judicial matters.

The keynote address at the seminar was delivered by former Supreme Court judge justice CK Thakkar. He said that in the absence of transparency and accountability, the image of the judiciary would suffer. Speaking on the occasion, founder-trustee of Dastak, Dr PN Mishra suggested several measures to ensure the independence of the judiciary.

"If the judiciary has to retain its independence, it must be transparent," Mishra said. He further said that a proper mechanism  be implemented through the judiciary to ensure transparency and accountability of courts. "The law should ensure the independence of judges," he added. Besides justice Mehta and Dr Mishra, other dignitaries who attended the seminar included former Guj HC judge justice RA Mehta, and Guj HC lawyer Dharmesh Bhatt.