In an era where access to justice remains one of the defining pillars of an equitable society, legal systems must evolve to become more inclusive, approachable, and responsive to the needs of every citizen.
In an exclusive interaction with Harita Mehta, Senior Advocate, High Court & Supreme Court, she reflects on her legal journey, the urgent need for reforms that empower vulnerable communities, the importance of bridging the gap between law and social realities, and the transformative role technology can play in democratizing legal awareness and access to justice in India.
1. As a Supreme Court advocate handling diverse matters, how has your legal journey shaped your understanding of justice and equality in India?
My legal journey has reinforced the belief that justice is not merely about legal rights but about ensuring that every individual, regardless of their social or economic background, has a fair opportunity to be heard. Working across diverse matters has shown me that while India’s constitutional framework is robust, the true challenge lies in making justice accessible and meaningful for every citizen. Equality before the law must translate into equality in access to legal remedies and opportunities.
2. What are some of the key legal reforms you believe are necessary to make justice more accessible for vulnerable and marginalized communities?
Access to justice requires a multi-pronged approach. Strengthening legal aid mechanisms, simplifying legal procedures, reducing delays in the judicial process, and increasing legal literacy at the grassroots level are critical. We also need greater institutional support for vulnerable groups, ensuring that legal services are not only available but also approachable and affordable.
3. Women often hesitate to seek legal support due to social stigma and lack of awareness. How can the legal ecosystem address this challenge?
The first step is awareness. Women must be educated about their legal rights through sustained outreach and community engagement. Equally important is creating safe, supportive, and sensitive legal environments where women feel comfortable seeking assistance. Collaboration between legal professionals, civil society organizations, educational institutions, and policymakers can play a significant role in breaking barriers and encouraging women to come forward.
4. Having worked closely with public institutions and community organizations, what lessons have you learned about bridging the gap between law and social realities?
One of the biggest lessons is that laws alone cannot create change; implementation and awareness are equally important. Effective collaboration between institutions, community organizations, and citizens helps ensure that legal protections reach those who need them most. Listening to community experiences often provides valuable insights into how policies and laws can be made more effective and inclusive.
5. How do you see technology and digital platforms transforming legal awareness and access to justice in the coming years?
Technology has the potential to democratize access to legal information and services. Digital platforms can help individuals understand their rights, access legal resources, connect with professionals, and track legal proceedings more efficiently. The growth of virtual hearings, online legal services, and legal awareness campaigns through digital channels can significantly reduce geographical and informational barriers, making justice more accessible to a larger segment of society.
These responses are neutral, authoritative, and suitable for a thought-leadership interview in a mainstream publication.
