Jaipur

Justice Surya Kant on Saturday said the judiciary and its allied institutions enjoy deep public trust, and it is their duty to preserve and strengthen that faith.

Addressing a programme organised by the Association of Retired Judges (Rajasthan Chapter) in Jaipur, the Chief Justice compared former judges to traditional stepwells, or baoris, calling them a reservoir of wisdom that can help guide the justice system in difficult times.

He said that just as stepwells store water during the rainy season and provide relief in times of scarcity, retired judges remain a valuable resource. According to him, in matters such as Lok Adalat proceedings, arbitration and advisory roles, the judiciary often turns to experienced former judges for guidance on right and wrong.

Justice Surya Kant stressed the need for greater awareness and proactive functioning across judicial institutions, including the National Legal Services Authority and various state legal services authorities.

He said retired judges can make significant contributions as mediators and arbitrators, especially in commercial and family disputes. They can also serve as pre-litigation counsellors, explain legal rights in simple language, mentor young mediators and preserve institutional knowledge for future generations of judges.

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Bhajanlal Sharma also addressed the event and said people continue to place strong faith in the judiciary.