SC judge allays criticism over judicial outreach

Supreme Court’s Justice N Kotiswar Singh on Thursday allayed the criticism that judiciary encroached upon the legislative domain, saying if the government couldn’t provide a basic framework, there was no harm if courts laid down the ground.

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“Of course, there has been criticism that the judiciary is encroaching upon the legislature’s field. But, as clarified, if you are unable to provide a basic framework, there is no harm for the court to lay down the ground and it has become part of our jurisprudence. The courts continue to do it by issuing directions from time to time,” he said.

The judge was speaking at the Delhi High Court’s launch of “Complaints of sexual harassment by women at workplace” digital portal.

“The workplace should be a place of opportunity and accomplishments; not a place generating fear,” said Justice N Kotiswar. Saying workplaces must provide respect for the dignity of the individuals and equal opportunity for all, he said any act that negates a conducive atmosphere for workers must be forbidden.