Indian languages are indeed allowed and recognized in Indian judicial high courts and the Supreme Court. India is a multilingual country with a rich linguistic diversity, and its legal system acknowledges the importance of linguistic inclusivity. Here's why Indian languages are not only allowed but also encouraged in the country's judicial proceedings:
1. Constitutional Provisions: The Indian Constitution, under Article 348, provides for the use of both English and the official languages of the state in the proceedings of the Supreme Court and high courts. This ensures that Indian languages have a legitimate place in the judicial system.
2. Official Languages Act: The Official Languages Act, 1963, mandates the use of Hindi and English for the functioning of the central government and its offices, including the Supreme Court. However, it also allows for the use of regional languages in high courts and lower courts within the states.
3. Regional Languages in High Courts: High courts across different states in India often conduct proceedings and issue judgments in the regional languages of the respective states. For instance, in states like Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, and Maharashtra, you can find judgments and proceedings in Tamil, Kannada, and Marathi, respectively.
4. Interpretation Services: To ensure accessibility and understanding of legal proceedings for all citizens, the judiciary provides interpretation services for those who may not be proficient in the language of the court.
5. Legal Education in Regional Languages: Many law schools and universities in India offer legal education in regional languages. This helps lawyers and judges become proficient in their native languages, facilitating the use of regional languages in the legal profession.
6. Cultural and Linguistic Diversity: Recognizing India's cultural and linguistic diversity, the judiciary encourages the use of regional languages to accommodate the linguistic preferences and needs of the people.
In essence, Indian languages are not only allowed but also embraced in the country's judicial system. The use of regional languages in high courts and lower courts ensures that justice is accessible and comprehensible to individuals who may not be fluent in English or Hindi. This linguistic inclusivity is a reflection of India's commitment to its linguistic diversity and constitutional values.
