'Delayed justice affects rule of law'

MYSURU: High Court judge BS Patil on Saturday said judicial system play a key role in making rule of law a reality in any country.
Inaugurating a workshop on "Access to justice and rule of law" at JSS Law College here, he said, "Rule of law and democracy go hand in hand. If judicial system or justice delivery system is efficient, impartial and competent, then the concept of rule of law and its implementation assumes real significance."
He added, "If a person feels aggrieved by action of authorities or any individuals, he or she should have access to court and access to justice.Access to court and justice are different. If the aggrieved party has access to justice, then the person must be assisted by a competent lawyer, must have fair trial and truth must triumph."
Patil explained that access to justice begins with educating the litigants and witnesses, adding advocates should not just be a mouthpiece of their clients; rather they have to find the truth and help get justice.
Patil pointed out that delayed justice affects rule of law and stands as a stigma on the legal system.
The workshop was jointly organized by JSS Law College and Karnataka Institute for Law and Parliamentary Reforms (KILPAR) at the college premises here.
KILPAR director SB Gunjigavi, additional solicitor general of India Prabhulinga Navadgi, Karnataka legal services authority member-secretary Uma MG and law college principal KS Suresh also attended the function.