By Our Reporter
SHILLONG, Aug 16: “Independence does not only mean freedom from colonial rule, but also internal freedom—a freedom of the mind and spirit,” remarked former Chief Justice of India, Justice (retd.) DY Chandrachud, as he addressed the 79th Independence Day celebrations at the High Court of Meghalaya in Shillong on Friday.
The event, held within the court premises, began with Chief Justice of the High Court of Meghalaya, Justice IP Mukerji, hoisting the national flag in the presence of judicial officers, court staff and dignitaries. The programme was also attended by Justice HS Thangkhiew, Justice W. Diengdoh and Justice Biswadeep Bhattacharjee.
In his address, Justice Mukerji underscored the primacy of duty over reward, stating, “Karma is in our hands, not the fruits of it.”
He praised the high court’s infrastructure, its scenic natural surroundings and the efficiency of its staff, while noting that the judicial system in Meghalaya still had scope for further development.
He then reaffirmed his commitment to serving public welfare through the judiciary.
On the other hand, the former CJI, while addressing the gathering as the chief guest, reflected on India’s journey over the past 75 years, highlighting strides in education, infrastructure and food self-sufficiency.
Citing improved road connectivity between Guwahati and Shillong as an example, he emphasised the need to channel the entrepreneurial energy of India’s youths.
“The future of India lies in liberating the energy of its young population and transforming it into self-motivation,” the former CJI said, urging young citizens to protect the nation’s diversity and uphold inclusion and unity. He also praised the High Court of Meghalaya as “a sentinel of governance, a bridge between citizens and the law, especially in a culturally rich state like Meghalaya.”
Justice Chandrachud emphasised that judges, while not always able to offer material relief, play a crucial role in healing societal wounds through empathetic listening and fair hearings. “Sometimes, just giving a citizen a patient hearing is an act of healing,” he said.
During the programme, both dignitaries called for a collective responsibility in building a just, inclusive and strong India—where diversity is celebrated and every citizen contributes to the nation’s future.