Delhi gang-rape initiated introspection, says PM at conference on judicial reforms: Highlights

New Delhi: Prime Minister Manmohan Singh today inaugurated a conference of chief ministers and judges in the national capital. The meet, presided over by Chief Justice of India Altamas Kabir, aims to address pressing issues related to the country's justice delivery system that's often criticised for being tardy.

Here are the highlights of what the PM said:

• This conference is a huge opportunity for a dialogue between the CMs and the judiciary to strengthen our justice delivery system.
• An irrevocable commitment to civil liberties is the sheet anchor of our constitution. I congratulate the judiciary for their contribution.
• Need to uphold human rights.
• At a time when a demand for judicial reforms is being made, we must ensure that reason and justice are not sacrificed as a result of the shrill rhetoric.
• The national outrage over the recent gang-rape in Delhi compelled us to relook at our justice delivery system. Our government has moved expeditiously in the aftermath of this tragedy. I thank the judiciary for fast tracking certain cases of crimes against women. But a lot more needs to be done. Gender sensitisation is needed.
• Over three crore cases are pending in Indian courts. I agree with the Chief Justice of India that we need to drastically increase the number of judges to address the issue of pendency and delays.
• However, the initiative in this regard must come from our state governments. We'll provide full support for improvement of infrastructure.
• The long pending demand for the setting up of All India Judicial Services - there has been headway. I hope a consensus can emerge.
• Expeditious justice, especially for the poor and needy is the need of the hour.
• Our model of development needs to be inclusive, dignity of all individuals must be respected.