'Trials go for decades… system badly needs fixing': CJI Gavai addresses flaws in Indian judicial system; pins hope on young graduates

Chief Justice of India BR Gavai on Saturday said the Indian legal system is “badly in need of fixing” and is facing unique challenges, including trials that often stretch on for decades.

Speaking at the convocation ceremony of NALSAR University of Law at Justice City, Hyderabad CJI expressed concern over the state of the judiciary system while addressing the students.

The convocation ceremony was attended by Telangana Chief Minister A Revanth Reddy, Supreme Court judge Justice PS Narasimha and acting chief justice of the Telangana High Court Justice Sujoy Paul presided over the event.

“Even though I conclude that our legal system is badly in need of fixing, I remain cautiously optimistic that my fellow citizens will rise to the challenges,” Justice Gavai said.

Highlighting systemic issues, he noted, “Delays in trials can sometimes go for decades. We have seen cases where someone has been found innocent after spending years in jail as an undertrial. Our best talent can help us resolve the problems that we are facing.”

Addressing the graduating students, the CJI showed faith in the upcoming generation in resolving the challenges faced by the Indian Judicial system and encouraged them to pursue further studies abroad on scholarships rather than burdening their families financially.