SKM/GOV/MESG/09/137
2nd June, 2009
MESSAGE
I am delighted to learn that the High Court of Sikkim has commenced its year long Golden Jubilee celebrations after having completed 50 years of existence in 2005. On this occasion, I wish to congratulate and send my good wishes to the Chief Justice of Sikkim and the entire family of judicial service in the State.
Sikkim High Court has played a major role in the administration of justice since its inception. It has successfully witnessed a smooth transfer of charge from the days of justice being carried out by local authorities during monarchical era to that of a constitutional entity of the present day.
The Sikkim Judiciary has played a vital role as an important organ of the State in making it meaningful contributions to good governance. The concept of good governance is undoubtedly linked with the citizens’ right of life, liberty and pursuit of happiness. This could be secured in a democracy only through the rule of law.
The rule of law is expressed through the axiom that no one is above the law, not even the government. It is under this framework that rule of law not only guarantees the liberty of the citizens but it also limits the arbitrariness of the government and thereby it makes government more articulate in decision making.
It is widely appreciated that human factors i.e. the quality of political leadership, the executive and judicial officials, play important roles not only in upholding supremacy of rule of law and in efficient delivery of service but also in shaping traditions, customs and institutional cultures that are integral part of the liberal democratic machinery.
Our courts are aware of the responsibilities of maintaining a living and vibrant democracy which unites the people in common bonds of justice.
It is with some justification that Sikkim Judiciary can in the year of its Golden Jubilee celebrations say with reverence and humility that the Constitutional rights of the people of the State are safe in its hands.
I wish the High Court of Sikkim all success in its future strivings.
( B.P. Singh )
