Kerala High Court Judge Justice Devan Ramachandran has emphasized the critical role that the press plays in informing the public about court orders and making them effective. Speaking at the Kozhikode Press Club's Golden Jubilee function, the judge said that he relies on press reports to gauge the views and opinions of the Indian citizens about the court's decisions.
According to Justice Ramachandran, the press is vital in ensuring that court orders and judgments reach the public, and without its coverage, they would only remain in law journals. He added that the press's role in arousing public opinion is crucial, as it indicates that the court is within the law.
However, the judge also acknowledged that the increasing openness brought about by virtual courts, a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, has made judges' jobs harder. He said that with the close scrutiny of the press and the public, it is challenging to know if he is doing a good job, and it is the press that informs him of his performance.
Overall, Justice Ramachandran's speech emphasized the importance of the press in a democratic India, and he highlighted the critical role it plays in ensuring that the judiciary remains effective in serving the public interest.
During his speech at the Kozhikode Press Club's Golden Jubilee function, Justice Devan Ramachandran highlighted the crucial role played by the press in India in enabling the power vested in the people by the Constitution to be made effective. He pointed out that the press provides a platform for a large number of people to raise their concerns and worries, making their voices heard. Without the press, only the voices of a few would be heard, the judge said.
He went on to caution against banning or curtailing press freedom, citing the Jasmine Revolution in Tunisia as an example of how such actions could give rise to revolts and revolutions. Justice Ramachandran emphasised that the press is itself democracy and the stability of the nation itself depends on it, as it is the fourth pillar of democracy.
Justice Ramachandran also acknowledged that despite being ranked 150 out of 180 nations in the Press Freedom Index compiled by Reporters Without Borders, the Indian press has done a remarkable job in reflecting the voice of the people and has been the carriers of the nation. The judge recognised that the Indian press faces many inhibitions, but nonetheless remains vibrant and continues to initiate a dialogue among the public.
TAGS: Justice Devan Ramachandran Kerala High Court press judiciary public opinion virtual courts covid-19 pandemic Kozhikode Press Club press freedom democracy stability fourth pillar Press Freedom Index Reporters Without Borders.
