Supreme Court India Museum – Preserving the History of Indian Judiciary
Conceived with intent of protecting and showcasing the history of the Indian judicial system, Supreme Court of India Museum is one of the very few judicial museums in the country which traces the growth of the Indian legal system right from the ancient era through the British raj till the present time.
History of the museum
A brainchild of the former Chief Justice of India, Hon’ble Shri M.N. Venkatachaliah, the foundation of this museum was laid in 1997 but its doors were opened to the public in 2004. Since then it has been bringing the common people in touch with the roots of Indian judiciary and its historical significance in forming the framework for what is known today as the World’s largest democracy.
Facts about the museum
The museum is a single-pillared, two-storied round structure overlooking the Supreme Court building from the northern side and is formed of two galleries each spread across an area of 5000 sq. ft. The first gallery walks us through the evolution of judiciary from the ancient India to the British period while the second gallery mirrors the comparatively modern developments such as the formation of Federal Court and the Supreme Court.
The first section of the museum houses a rich repository of ancient texts, manuscripts, inscriptions, seals and various artifacts including the seals from Harappa and Mohenjo-Daro (3rd Century B.C), Asokan edicts and Nalanda Copper Plate (9th Century A.D). The second section features an interesting selection of antique furniture of the Federal Court and the Supreme Court, souvenirs, postal stamps, coins, wigs and ceremonial costumes. Besides, this section also offers a view into some of the most remarkable judgments passed by the Supreme Court and the records of some exceptionally well-known cases such as the Mahatma Gandhi Murder Case and the Indira Gandhi Assassination Case, etc.
To spread greater awareness about the history and heritage of the country, the museum also organises special activities and screening of documentary films.
Timings and entry
The museum is open to the public from 10 am to 5 pm on all weekdays except Monday and holidays of Supreme Court Registry. Entry is free for everyone.
How to reach
The entrance of the museum is from Mathura road which is right opposite to the first exit gate of Pragati Maidan metro station.