Judges not gods, won't get every judgment right: Outgoing SC Judge Sanjay Karol

Justice Sanjay Karol, an outgoing judge of India's Supreme Court, reflected on the human element of justice during his farewell address on Saturday. "Judges are not gods, and we will not get every judgment right," he stated, emphasizing that the role requires humility and a focus on the person behind the petition.

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Judges are not gods, and we will not get every judgment right.

Karol, who was elevated to the Supreme Court in February 2023, shared his perspective on the judiciary's responsibility. "The Constitution does not ask us merely to apply the law correctly. It asks us to apply it justly," he said. He stressed the importance of seeing the litigant as an individual, acknowledging their losses and hopes, which a petition alone cannot convey.

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The Constitution does not ask us merely to apply the law correctly. It asks us to apply it justly.

Reflecting on his nearly 40-year journey in the legal profession, Justice Karol described the courtroom as more than just a workplace. He spoke of the significance of "eloquent silences" and listening beyond spoken words, suggesting that true understanding comes from grasping the unspoken prayers and emotions within the court.

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What was always in our hands was simple: to see the person, not just the petitioner.

He also touched upon the symbolism of the judge's bench, noting that from below it appears to signify authority, but from the judge's perspective, it represents responsibility, dignity, and honesty. Justice Karol concluded by highlighting that the Supreme Court's true value lies in the faith ordinary citizens place in it, believing their voices will be heard.

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Judging requires certain level of humility.