Chief Justice of India Surya Kant on Sunday laid the foundation stone of the new Mandi Judicial Court Complex, a modern facility to be built at an estimated cost of ₹152 crore. The ceremony was held in the presence of Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu.
The upcoming court complex will be constructed on 9.6 hectares of land and will comprise four blocks designed to provide improved infrastructure and facilities for judges, lawyers and the public.
Addressing a legal literacy camp on the occasion, Justice Surya Kant emphasized that the judicial system should function with the same spirit as hospitals. He said that just as people visit hospitals with hope for treatment, citizens approach courts expecting relief and justice. With improved infrastructure and facilities, he added, the responsibility of the judiciary also increases.
Highlighting the cultural significance of Mandi, popularly known as “Chhoti Kashi”, the Chief Justice said the foundation stone laid today symbolises the creation of a “temple of justice” at a place already revered for its spiritual importance.
Justice Surya Kant also stressed the importance of not only understanding fundamental rights but also fulfilling fundamental duties as enshrined in the Constitution. He noted that Himachal Pradesh has preserved its natural beauty and called for greater public awareness about constitutional responsibilities, especially at the grassroots level.
Welcoming the Chief Justice, Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu reaffirmed the state government’s commitment to ensuring justice and equal rights for every citizen. He said the government is working toward inclusive development and social justice in line with the constitutional vision.
The Chief Minister highlighted several initiatives undertaken by the state government, including adopting around 6,000 orphaned children as “Children of the State” under a unique law. He also mentioned that the legal marriage age for girls in the state has been increased to 21 years to ensure equal opportunities.
Additionally, daughters have been granted equal rights in ancestral property up to 150 bighas, a benefit previously limited to sons. To support the education of children of widowed women, the government has launched the Indira Gandhi Sukh Shiksha Yojana, under which the state bears their educational expenses.
The Chief Minister further stated that through revenue Lok Adalats, nearly 5.5 lakh long-pending cases have been resolved, helping strengthen access to justice and administrative efficiency in the state.
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