Judiciary plays unifying role in sustaining India's diverse and democratic character: Justice Surya Kant in US
Speaking at an event organised by the Washington Telangana Association in Redmond, Washington, Justice Kant said that 'as the interpreter and guardian of the Constitution,' the judiciary 'has upheld principles such as fraternity, equality, and human dignity, ensuring that the rule of law remains central to Indian democracy' and that 'through its reasoned decisions and moral authority, the judiciary not only resolves legal conflicts but also affirms a vision of justice that binds the nation together'.
Addressing the gathering, which saw attendance from business and community leaders from Telangana, Andhra Pradesh, Punjab, Haryana, Rajasthan, Gujarat, Karnataka, West Bengal, Madhya Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh, Maharashtra etc., he said that 'for the diaspora, this' role of the judiciary 'becomes a source of pride and reassurance, affirming that the values they hold dear are not only protected but continually reaffirmed within India's constitutional order'.
He said that 'this sense of continuity is especially meaningful in the lives of NRIs, whose ties to India often involve not just emotional and cultural bonds, but also legal and familial responsibilities'.
Justice Kant stressed that 'the Indian judiciary has played a crucial role in addressing the unique challenges faced by the diaspora—ranging from property and inheritance disputes to family law matters like custody and matrimonial issues'.
Shared heritage and democratic values
Lauding the diaspora for its success and for promoting cultural heritage, he underscored that 'this shared heritage is not only preserved through culture and community, but also through the enduring institutions that uphold our democratic values'.
Justice Kant said, 'While tradition keeps us rooted in who we are, it is the strength of India's constitutional framework that safeguards the principles underpinning our identity—justice, fairness, and inclusivity. These values are not confined to ceremonies or symbols; they are actively lived and protected through the institutions that give them meaning. Among these, the judiciary stands out as a pillar that continues to reflect and reinforce the spirit of India, both within its borders and across the global Indian diaspora.'
'As we reflect on what binds us together—across states, professions, and continents—it becomes clear that our strength lies in the values we carry and the institutions that uphold them. Whether through community associations abroad or constitutional guardians at home, the Indian identity remains resilient because it is both lived and protected. It thrives in our languages and festivals, but also in our collective commitment to justice, dignity, and mutual respect. These are the ideals that shape not just who we are, but who we continue to become—no matter where we live,' he further said.
Justice Kant said 'the success of the Indian diaspora is not only measured in individual achievement — though that alone is remarkable. It is also reflected in the collective identity that communities have preserved and passed on across generations. Whether through temples, cultural centres, schools, or community events, the diaspora has cultivated a sense of belonging and solidarity, making the Indian identity one that thrives far beyond national borders'.
Ananthakrishnan G. is a Senior Assistant Editor with The Indian Express. He has been in the field for over 23 years, kicking off his journalism career as a freelancer in the late nineties with bylines in The Hindu. A graduate in law, he practised in the District judiciary in Kerala for about two years before switching to journalism. His first permanent assignment was with The Press Trust of India in Delhi where he was assigned to cover the lower courts and various commissions of inquiry.
He reported from the Delhi High Court and the Supreme Court of India during his first stint with The Indian Express in 2005-2006. Currently, in his second stint with The Indian Express, he reports from the Supreme Court and writes on topics related to law and the administration of justice. Legal reporting is his forte though he has extensive experience in political and community reporting too, having spent a decade as Kerala state correspondent, The Times of India and The Telegraph. He is a stickler for facts and has several impactful stories to his credit. ... Read More
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