Nation that does not respect its women can never prosper: Altamas Kabir

Chief Justice of India Altamas Kabir today expressed grave concern over rising incidents of violence against women in the country.

He also laid emphasis on the need for having more judicial officers, better judicial infrastructure and setting up of mediation centres and tribunals to meet the challenge of growing number of litigations.

"A nation which can not ensure respect for its women, can never prosper. It is heartening to see that women are coming to the forefront in all walks of life. Steps like reservations in panchayats have enabled them to become sarpanch and take charge of their villages despite social prejudices," the CJI said here on the sidelines of a function organised by the Allahabad High Court on the 150th birth anniversary of renowned educationist, jurist and freedom fighter Madan Mohan Malaviya.

Referring to the infamous Delhi gang rape case, Kabir said, "The December 16 incident left the entire nation shaken. Besides, every morning we wake up to find newspapers replete with stories of violence against women. Madan Mohan Malaviya had realised the need for uplifting the status of women decades ago and the ideal needs to be preserved."

The CJI also took note of the staggering pendency of cases in courts across the country and said, "Governments in states should take steps to increase, if needed even double, the number of judicial officers posted in districts."

He, however, added that such a measure will require commensurate upgradation of infrastructure.

"We can take the example of the Allahabad High Court where the sanctioned strength is 160 but the number of judges is about half of that. However, if we try to fill all vacant posts, it may not necessarily translate into better rate of disposal as there are not adequate number of chambers and court rooms. This also needs to be addressed."

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