Deon Dylan Fernandes, B.A. LL. B (Honours), School of Law, Christ (Deemed to be University)
ABSTRACT
Les Misérables is a beautiful novel written by Victor Hugo that not only deals with the complexities of a common man’s life, but also touches upon the ideals of justice in relation to the times it was written in. Through the incredible tale of Jean Valjean, who is imprisoned for stealing a loaf of bread, Hugo brings out the oppressions faced by the plebeians along with their constant clash with social inequality and a preferential judicial system. Two centuries later, the novel still stands extremely relevant in the context of lack of access to justice in courts in India. There is an uncanny resemblance between Hugo’s novel to the present situation that has plagued the Indian judiciary. The problems faced by the marginalised and poor in finding representation to resolve their disputes remains irresolvable. Thus, the objective of this research article lies mainly in the comparison of the situation of courts in Nineteenth-century France as laid down in Hugo’s novel to the present situation which torments the Indian legal system. It understands the need to explore Hugo’s solemn contemporary ideas which still hold relevance and thus, marks the purpose of this study.
Keywords: Justice, Judiciary, Marginalised, Representation, Social Inequality
