New Delhi:     Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday highlighted the urgent need for expedited judicial action in cases of violence against women and child safety. His comments came as the nation expressed outrage over the recent brutal rape and murder of a trainee doctor at Kolkata’s R.G. Kar Medical College and Hospital.

Speaking at the National Conference of District Judiciary, Modi stressed that swift judicial decisions would enhance the safety and assurance for women, who constitute half the population. He noted that although strict laws are in place, including plans for fast-track courts initiated in 2019, effective implementation is crucial. Modi proposed creating deposition centers for key witnesses and emphasized the role of district committees—including the District Judge, District Magistrate, and Superintendent of Police—in coordinating actions on sensitive cases.

Modi also discussed the Bhartiya Nyaya Sanhita, which emphasizes “citizen first, dignity first, and justice first,” aiming to protect rather than just punish. 

Chief Justice of India D.Y. Chandrachud, also speaking at the event, described the district judiciary as the backbone of the justice system and advocated moving away from the colonial-era perception of district courts as subordinate. He highlighted that a significant proportion of recent judicial recruits in Kerala are women.

Senior advocate Kapil Sibal voiced concerns about the hesitation of trial and district courts to grant bail in important cases, calling for stronger support and confidence in the judiciary. 

The conference, attended by Law Minister Arjun Ram Meghwal, Supreme Court and High Court judges, and other judicial figures, featured the unveiling of a stamp and coin marking 75 years of the Supreme Court. The discussions focused on judicial reforms and the pivotal role of the district judiciary in the justice system.