President of India, Smt. Droupadi Murmu, marked a significant milestone in Madhya Pradesh’s judicial infrastructure today by laying the foundation stone for the new High Court building in Jabalpur. During the ceremony, President Murmu emphasised on the pivotal role of the judiciary in delivering accessible and prompt justice to the public while acknowledging the sector’s challenges, including case backlogs and the need for improved infrastructure.
President Murmu praised the ’25 DEBT’ campaign initiated by the Madhya Pradesh High Court, urging district judges to expedite cases pending for decades. She also emphasized the importance of strengthening alternative dispute resolution mechanisms to enhance cost-effectiveness, reduce the judicial burden, and promote mediation.
Recognizing the increasing role of technology in the judicial sector, President Murmu welcomed the government’s approval of the third phase of the e-Court project, aimed at enhancing accessibility, affordability, and transparency in the justice system.
The President called on legal organizations to provide pro bono legal aid to marginalized communities, ensuring that justice remains accessible to all. She stressed the need for empowering women in the judiciary, highlighting their natural sense of justice and potential contribution to fairness.
Reflecting on Jabalpur’s historical significance in the judiciary, President Murmu acknowledged its progressive journey and its role in reaffirming fundamental rights, notably in the ADM Jabalpur vs. Shivkant Shukla case.
She expressed satisfaction with the state-of-the-art facilities planned for the new Madhya Pradesh High Court building, including a separate Bar Room for women advocates, which will enhance convenience for women litigants. President Murmu expressed confidence that the completed building would inspire judges, lawyers, and administrative staff to fulfill their duties with greater dedication and efficiency.