India's Judiciary Plays Unifying Role In Sustaining Nation's Diverse & Democratic Character: Justice Surya Kant

"India's judiciary plays a unifying role in sustaining the diverse and democratic character of the nation,” Supreme Court judge Justice Surya Kant said at an event in Washington last week.

"The Indian judiciary plays a unifying role in sustaining the diverse and democratic character of the nation, anchoring its people—at home and abroad—in shared constitutional values. As the interpreter and guardian of the Constitution, it has upheld principles such as fraternity, equality, and human dignity, ensuring that the rule of law remains central to Indian democracy," he said.

Justice Surya Kant was speaking at an event organised by the Washington Telangana Association in Redmond, Washington. Addressing the gathering, Jusice Kant said that through its reasoned decisions and moral authority, the judiciary not only resolves legal conflicts but also affirms a vision of justice that binds the nation together. For the diaspora, this becomes a source of pride and reassurance, affirming that the values they hold dear are not only protected but continually reaffirmed within India's constitutional order.

Justice Kant said that a sense of continuity is especially meaningful in the lives of NRIs, whose ties to India often involve not just emotional and cultural bonds, but also legal and familial responsibilities. He said that the Indian judiciary has played a crucial role in addressing the unique challenges faced by the diaspora— ranging from property and inheritance disputes to family law matters like custody and matrimonial issues.

With procedural adaptations and a growing recognition of cross- border complexities, the courts have made justice more accessible to those living abroad. In certain areas, Justice Kant said, the judiciary has also extended the protection of Fundamental Rights, ensuring that non-resident citizens are treated with fairness and equality under the law. By doing so, the judiciary reinforces the message that India's commitment to justice does not end at its borders—it reaches all those who continue to carry the country in their hearts.

Justice Kant underlined that the Indian diaspora is one of the largest and most influential in the world — a global community of over 30 million people living across continents. He lauded the diaspore for being deeply rooted in the values and traditions of India.

"I must take this opportunity to also underscore that this shared heritage is not only preserved through culture and community, but also through the enduring institutions that uphold our democratic values. While tradition keep us rooted in who we are, it is the strength of India's constitutional framework that safeguards the principles underpinning our identity—justice, fairness, and inclusivity. These values are not confined to ceremonies or symbols; they are actively lived and protected through the institutions that give them meaning. Among these, the judiciary stands out as a pillar that continues to reflect and reinforce the spirit of India, both within its borders and across the global Indian diaspora," he said.