In a strong push for linguistic inclusion in the Indian judiciary, Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M.K. Stalin has reiterated the demand for allowing Tamil as a language of court proceedings in the Supreme Court and Madras High Court. Speaking at a national meeting of law ministers, Stalin emphasized the need to make the justice system more accessible by using regional languages.
CM Stalin highlighted the importance of using Tamil—a classical and widely spoken language in the state—in the judicial process. He argued that language should not be a barrier to justice and that court proceedings in a regional language would empower citizens who do not understand English, especially those from rural backgrounds.
He noted that the Tamil Nadu Assembly had passed a resolution earlier urging the Central Government to permit the use of Tamil in the Madras High Court and the Supreme Court. He called on the Union Government and the Ministry of Law and Justice to take immediate steps in this direction.
Stalin stressed that Tamil is not only a language of heritage but also an administrative language used across state departments. “When Tamil can be used in the Legislative Assembly, why not in the courts?” he questioned, urging for reforms that reflect India’s linguistic diversity.
Citing Article 348 of the Constitution, which allows for the use of regional languages in High Courts with the President’s approval, he requested that necessary steps be taken to grant this permission for Tamil. The Chief Minister also mentioned that this move would significantly improve access to justice and ensure better understanding of legal proceedings for common citizens.
The demand has sparked a wider conversation about the role of regional languages in the Indian legal system. While proponents believe it would make the courts more people-friendly, critics warn about the challenges of maintaining consistency in legal terminology and interpretation across different languages.
Legal observers believe that the use of regional languages could be feasible in High Courts, with proper translation and support systems. However, implementing it in the Supreme Court may be more complex due to its national jurisdiction.
So far, the Union Government has acknowledged the concern and said the matter is under review. However, no specific timeline or policy direction has been announced.
