New Delhi: In the latest episode of The Candid Talk podcast by Dynamite News, senior legal expert and former member of the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC), Jyotika Kalra, addressed some of the most pressing and uncomfortable questions about India’s legal system.
In a candid conversation with Editor-in-Chief Manoj Tibrewal Aakash, she spoke about access to justice, delays in courts, gender bias in the legal profession, and whether the law truly treats everyone equally.
Can You Succeed as a Lawyer Without a Godfather?
Kalra dismissed the notion that success in litigation depends on having a powerful mentor or “godfather.” According to her, consistent practice, in-depth study, and strong courtroom skills are far more important. While guidance can help, she emphasized that hard work and preparation ultimately determine a lawyer’s growth.
Law School vs Courtroom Reality
Highlighting the gap between academics and practice, Kalra said legal education largely remains theoretical. Understanding sections of the Indian Penal Code or procedural laws is not enough. Real learning begins inside the courtroom. She advised aspiring lawyers to pursue internships and hands-on training early, given the intense competition in the profession.
Are Law and Justice the Same?
Kalra made a clear distinction between law and justice. Courts function on evidence and procedure, not emotions. Even in serious criminal cases, the outcome depends on whether the investigation, trial, and evidence meet legal standards. “Law is blind,” she noted, stressing that judicial decisions are based strictly on proof.
Is Justice Expensive and Delayed?
With millions of cases pending across courts, delays are inevitable. Kalra pointed to vacant judicial posts and infrastructure shortages as major reasons behind the familiar “date after date” phenomenon. While legal aid services exist in every court, high-profile or complex cases often require private lawyers whose fees reflect the time, research, and team support involved.
Do Rich and Poor Face Different Laws?
Addressing a widely debated concern, Kalra said the law itself does not change based on wealth. However, access to better resources, legal teams, and prolonged litigation strategies may differ. Ultimately, she stressed, courage and persistence matter more than financial status. There have been cases where ordinary citizens have prevailed against powerful opponents.
Challenges for Women Lawyers
Kalra acknowledged that women lawyers often face skepticism from clients. However, she said performance in court ultimately overrides gender bias. Once competence is demonstrated, professional credibility takes precedence.
Social Media Trials and Judicial Pressure
Kalra warned that social media trials pose a serious risk to the justice system. She emphasized that courts must remain guided by law and evidence rather than public opinion.
Filing Complaints with NHRC
Explaining the complaint process, she said human rights violations can be reported online or via written applications to the National Human Rights Commission. Accurate details, including correct postal codes, are essential to ensure notices are served properly.
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IPC vs BNS: What Has Changed?
Referring to the transition from the Indian Penal Code to the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), Kalra said reforms have been introduced, but systemic transformation will take time.
The Road Ahead
On corruption and systemic reform, Kalra concluded that building a corruption-free India requires collective will and institutional strengthening. Legal awareness, judicial reforms, and increased infrastructure are critical to restoring public confidence in the system.
The episode underscores a hard truth: while the law may be equal on paper, access to timely justice remains one of India’s biggest challenges.
