The Supreme Court of India has appointed a sign-language interpreter for the very first time in its long history, a milestone aimed at ensuring accessibility within the legal system. The announcement came directly from Chief Justice of India DY Chandrachud, who made the groundbreaking decision during a court session. This significant step forward was prompted by a recent case where a bench led by the CJI engaged hearing-impaired lawyer Sarah Sunny through the services of sign-language interpreter Saurav Roy Chowdhury. The case revolved around the rights of individuals with disabilities and exemplified the court's commitment to inclusivity.
Also Read: Sarah Sunny, The First Hearing Impaired Lawyer, Argues SC Case In Sign Language
Chief Justice Chandrachud's commitment to accessibility extends beyond this singular appointment. He initiated the formation of a Supreme Court committee on accessibility last year, focusing on comprehending the unique challenges faced by differently-abled individuals when navigating the justice delivery system. This proactive approach aligns with the court's broader mission to foster a more diverse and inclusive legal landscape, establishing a positive precedent for the future.
This decision highlights the Supreme Court's dedication to ensuring that justice remains accessible to every citizen, regardless of their physical abilities. The move has been widely praised by legal professionals as a significant step toward inclusivity within the Indian legal framework. Notably, the Supreme Court has also undertaken infrastructural enhancements designed to better accommodate specially-abled individuals, further reinforcing its commitment to equitable access to justice.
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