‘A law that cannot feel, cannot heal’: Justice Surya Kant's philosophy of law

Justice, for him, is not a verdict pronounced from a pedestal, but a whisper of understanding from a conscience awake. It must touch not only the letter of law, but the pulse of life.

“A law that cannot feel, cannot heal,” says Justice Surya Kant, who sees compassion as the highest form of strength.

In his first in-depth conversation with the Tribune after being designated the Chief Justice of India, Justice Surya Kant says the judiciary must remain alive to the rhythm of a changing world.

“Every institution must reform not because it has failed, but because the world it serves keeps changing. The judiciary must lead this renewal — quietly, firmly and without fear,” he says, his tone measured but resolute.

Reform, he explains, is not an admission of failure but an act of foresight — th