New Delhi: As the nation gears up to celebrate Independence Day with fervor, the atmosphere is a mix of joy and concern. While festivities are in full swing, some citizens are voicing their grievances against the government’s actions, particularly in light of recent events in Kolkata and neighboring Bangladesh. Amidst these mixed sentiments, Chief Justice of India, D.Y. Chandrachud, has weighed in, emphasizing the critical importance of freedom and the lessons to be learned from the current situation in Bangladesh.
During an address following the flag hoisting ceremony at the Supreme Court premises, Chief Justice Chandrachud drew attention to the troubling events unfolding in Bangladesh, where Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina recently resigned after weeks of violent protests. He highlighted that the ongoing attacks on the Hindu minority community in Bangladesh serve as a stark reminder of the preciousness of freedom—a value often taken for granted.
“Independence Day is not just a celebration but a solemn reminder of the duties we owe to each other and the nation,” said Justice Chandrachud. “The recent incidents in Bangladesh underscore how easily freedom can be jeopardized. We must learn from these events and remember the struggles of the past that secured our rights.”
Justice Chandrachud’s remarks come at a time when concerns are mounting in India over the safety and rights of the Hindu community in Bangladesh. His criticism of Sheikh Hasina’s handling of the situation echoes the sentiments of many who fear for the future of minority rights in the region.
Reflecting on India’s journey to independence, the Chief Justice paid tribute to the countless lawyers who set aside their legal careers to fight for the nation’s freedom. He also extended his best wishes to journalists and citizens, urging them to uphold the values enshrined in the Constitution.
Union Law Minister Arjun Ram Meghwal, who was present at the ceremony, reiterated the significance of the Constitution, calling it the supreme guiding force for the nation. He echoed the Chief Justice’s sentiments, stating, “If the legislature, executive, and judiciary truly embody the spirit of the Constitution, India will undoubtedly become a developed nation.”
Supreme Court Bar Association President and senior advocate Kapil Sibal also spoke at the event, recalling the words of India’s first Prime Minister, Jawaharlal Nehru, and reflecting on the hard-earned freedom that the country continues to celebrate.
As India commemorates another year of independence, the messages from its leaders serve as a powerful reminder of the ongoing struggle to protect and cherish the freedoms that define the nation.
