Nongstoin, June 02: In an historic event in the annals of the Judiciary in West Khasi Hills, Meghalaya Chief Minister Dr Mukul Sangma alongwith the Chief Justice of Meghalaya High Court Justice P C Pant inaugurated and laid the foundation stone for the District and Sessions Judge Court of West KhasiHills in the presence of Rowell Lyngdoh, Deputy Chief Minister, Meghalaya High Court Judge Justice S R Sen Mr. S M Sangma, Parliamentary Secretary, Mr. W Mawsor, MLA, Mr. K. P Pangniang, MLA, Additional Chief Secretary, Mr. K S Kropha, Syiem of Nongstoin, Mr. E P Syiem,, Syiem of Khadsawphra, Mr. P Syiemlieh, Deputy Commissioner, West Khasi Hills, Nongstoin,, Mr. S Kharlyndoh and host of other dignitaries at the function held at the Deputy Commissioner’s Office Complex, Nongstoin.
Chief Justice, Justice P C Pant in his brief speech said that the separation of the Judiciary from the Executive is a step towards fulfilling the constitutional mandate and building confidence among the people. He said that this will facilitate the speedy delivery of justice without unnecessary delay in the process.
Deputy Chief Minister, Mr Rowell Lyngdoh in his speech said that the separation of the Judiciary from the executive is a relief to the executives as it will enable them to function more effectively and is is also a relief to the litigants as it would enable them to get faster justice.
Dr Sangma while addressing the gathering emphasized on the importance of the complete separation of the Judiciary from the executive to create a conducive atmosphere for the justice delivery system to flourish effectively. Elaborating the Government’s efforts in establishing the District and Session judge Court Dr Sangma said that the court would be able to accelerate legal proceedings thereby delivering prompt justice and at the same timehelp the understaffed Police Department who are weighed down with their duties in solving cases, investigation and maintaining law and order. He also assured that the Government would equip the Court with the necessary infrastructure.
Terming the occasion as a historic milestone, Dr Mukul said that it is the responsibility of the Government to ensure that the provisions as enshrined in the constitution of the country is fulfilled. He said that the District and sessions court will ensure access to equal opportunities and justice and will facilitate expeditious administration of justice.
While stressing on the need to create awareness about the legal system amomg the people, Dr Mukul said that it is very important that the people are made aware of their rights and it is imperative upon the Government to sensitise the people and reach out to all the stakeholders. He also urge the youth to take up legal studies as one of the options so that they can contribute towards effective legal system and get an opportunity to serve the people.
“I appeal to the Bar to make Legal support more affordable to the common man” said Dr Mukul Sangma while concluding his speech stating that in many occasions people were discouraged to take legal support due to exorbitant charges for legal support.
Among others who spoke at the occasion were Deputy Chief Minister, Mr. Rowell Lyngdoh, Mawshynrut MLA, Mr. Witting Mawsor and Deputy Commissioner, West Khasi Hills, Mr. S Kharlyngdoh.(SP News)
