Chief Justice Surya Kant Emphasizes Rule of Law at Stockholm Conference

Chief Justice of India Surya Kant addressed the International Institute for Democracy and Electoral Assistance (IDEA) conference in Stockholm, stressing that the rule of law is not a welfare scheme or economic policy but a fundamental safeguard that disciplines the exercise of government power. He said it ensures public authority acts through known, stable and general rules, treating citizens as equals before the law and protecting them from arbitrary whims.

Kant highlighted the importance of judicial independence and constitutional democracy, noting that the Supreme Court must respect its institutional boundaries and not function as a super‑executive. He linked India’s constitutional traditions to the shared democratic values of Sweden and called for continued vigilance by courts to uphold constitutional supremacy.