On October 2, 2023, the Supreme Court of India, in collaboration with the Supreme Court Bar Association (SCBA), came together to celebrate the revered occasion of Gandhi Jayanti and Lal Bahadur Shastri Jayanti in New Delhi. The day was marked with a spirit of reverence, a commitment to cleanliness, and a deep reflection on the principles espoused by Mahatma Gandhi and the visionary Lal Bahadur Shastri.
A Day of Commemoration
The festivities commenced with a profound sense of purpose. Participants engaged in a cleanliness drive, embodying the spirit of ‘Swachh Bharat Abhiyan,’ and paid homage to the Father of the Nation, Mahatma Gandhi, by garlanding his statue. Additionally, a photograph of Lal Bahadur Shastri was adorned with flowers, honoring the legacy of the former Prime Minister who played a pivotal role in India’s history.
CJI DY Chandrachud’s Inspirational Message
Chief Justice of India, Dr. DY Chandrachud, delivered an eloquent message that encapsulated the essence of this momentous day. He remarked, “On this special occasion of Gandhi Jayanti, we commemorate the birth anniversary of the Father of our Nation, Mahatma Gandhi, whose principles of non-violence, truth, and self-discipline continue to inspire us in our pursuit of justice.” In his tribute to Lal Bahadur Shastri, the CJI highlighted the stalwart leader’s vision for a strong and self-reliant India.
CJI Chandrachud underscored the profound meaning of cleanliness, echoing Mahatma Gandhi’s teachings. He emphasized that cleanliness is not merely a physical act but a reflection of our inner state. The CJI called upon the members of the SCBA to let this occasion serve as a reminder of their collective commitment to justice, integrity, and upholding the values enshrined in India’s Constitution. He urged, “Let us not only clean our physical environment but also strive for a cleaner, more transparent, and accountable legal system. Together, let us continue our journey in pursuit of a just and cleaner society.”
Justice Sanjeev Khanna’s Perspective
The commemoration ceremony was presided over by Justice Sanjeev Khanna, who shed light on the enduring relevance of Gandhian philosophy. He evoked Mahatma Gandhi’s words, stating, “Facts mean truth, and once we adhere to truth, the law comes to our aid naturally.” Justice Khanna also celebrated Lal Bahadur Shastri’s unwavering dedication to the nation, describing him as a true Gandhian with selfless devotion.
A Global Celebration
It is worth noting that Chief Justice DY Chandrachud extended the celebration of Gandhi Jayanti beyond borders. He marked the occasion at Tavistock Square in London, where he shared, “Mahatma Gandhi is a name that calls for universal peace, a name that inspires hope that we shall make our world a better place to live than it was before.”
Conclusion: Embracing Gandhian Values
The celebration of Gandhi Jayanti and Lal Bahadur Shastri Jayanti by the Supreme Court and SCBA serves as a poignant reminder of the enduring relevance of Mahatma Gandhi’s principles in the pursuit of justice and integrity. Chief Justice DY Chandrachud’s message, emphasizing cleanliness, transparency, and accountability, resonates as a call to action for a just and cleaner society. As India commemorates these visionary leaders, their timeless values continue to guide the nation towards progress and harmony.
