Ex-CJI Lalit Slams India's Justice System, Calls for Reforms to Prevent Misuse of Laws

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Former Chief Justice of India U U Lalit has expressed deep concern over the country's dismal conviction rate, labeling the administration of criminal justice as the most neglected sphere in the government apparatus. Speaking at a conference organized by the Ekam Nyaay Foundation, Lalit emphasized the need for reforms to prevent the abuse of criminal laws and ensure that innocent individuals are not prosecuted. Lalit, who has spent 42 years as a lawyer, judge, and professor of law, noted that the police force lacks the necessary professional equipment and education, leading to a high rate of false accusations and wrongful convictions. The former CJI cited statistics showing that in criminal matters, four out of five undertrials languishing in prisons are eventually acquitted, highlighting the need for a more efficient and effective justice system. Lalit proposed separating the investigative wing of the police from the rest of the force to prevent officers from double-hatting as both investigators and law enforcement personnel. He also suggested that magistrates record statements from alleged victims under oath to prevent false accusations and ensure that the accused are not subjected to unnecessary restraint or arrest. The former CJI also expressed concerns about the misuse of rape laws, citing cases where women have accused men of taking advantage of them after a relationship has gone sour. Lalit emphasized the need for a more nuanced approach to these cases, taking into account the complexities and grey areas involved. Lalit's comments come as the Supreme Court has expressed similar concerns about the need for reforms in the justice system. The former CJI's call for reforms is aimed at preventing the misuse of laws and ensuring that innocent individuals are not subjected to undue harassment and prosecution. In the words of Lalit, "We must galvanize the machinery in such a way that it leaves out chances of an innocent getting tracked to the court, an innocent getting prosecuted, and an innocent getting tired of the entire process." The conference, which seeks to spark a national conversation on justice reforms, has been hailed as a crucial step towards creating a more efficient and effective justice system in India.