country where a large population, almost 70 per cent, is living in poverty and does not share the affluence that the other section have."
"Many of them are not as fortunate as we are. They are below poverty line and don't even know about their rights, have no access of the courts," he said.
He also highlighted lack of infrastructure and logistical facilities for courts in the country, high amount of arrears of cases particularly those of Negotiable Instruments Act while expressing concern over lack of awareness about alternate mechanisms like compounding the offences, Lok Adalats, plea bargaining, etc.
"About three months ago in Madhya Pradesh, Lok Adalats disposed of 27 lakh cases in one day," he cited an example.
Chronologically describing the evolution of Criminal Justice system in India, the Chief Justice observed that, "there is a change in the mindset."
In this regard, he cited the example of the global campaign 'One Billion Rising' "to make people aware of the rights of women and their right to be protected."
"In Gujarat you have a famous ship yard (Alang Ship Yard at Bhavnagar) where hazardous ships were brought. These environmental hazards has been a crime against human beings, against people who live in the state. It took right-minded citizens to bring it forward," he added.