The terms "law" and "justice" are often used interchangeably, yet their meanings and functions are distinct. Justice, stemming from the Latin "Jus" or "Justus," embodies the principles of fairness and righteousness. In contrast, law, originating from the Old Norse "lagu," denotes the rules that govern a society under a sovereign state, with breaches of these rules resulting in punitive measures. Thus, while laws establish norms and regulations for conduct, justice ensures fairness, especially for those who have suffered from violations.

Laws serve as indispensable instruments for achieving justice by providing a framework that regulates behavior within society. Rooted in ancient Greek concepts of harmonious coexistence, laws aim to balance individual freedoms with prohibitions against actions deemed harmful or immoral. They can be broadly categorized into remedial and penal laws.

Remedial laws, such as maternity rights and labour laws, are designed to provide remedies and protections to individuals who may be vulnerable to exploitation or unfair treatment. These laws ensure that all members of society, particularly those in disadvantaged positions, have access to certain rights and benefits that promote equality and fairness.

In contrast, penal laws establish punishments for acts that threaten public order or safety, such as theft, violence, or sexual assault. The primary purpose of penal laws is to deter such behaviours through the threat of punishment and to uphold societal norms and values.

Punishments under penal laws serve different purposes. Reformative punishments focus on the rehabilitation of offenders, aiming to reintegrate them into society as law-abiding citizens. This approach is typically applied to lesser offenses, such as trespass or minor thefts, where there is belief in the potential for personal transformation and positive change.

Conversely, retributive punishments emphasize the principle of "an eye for an eye," seeking to balance justice by imposing proportional penalties for serious crimes. Offenses such as grievous harm(Section 115 BNS), attempted murder(Section 109), or rape (Section 63) may warrant retributive punishments, which are designed to reflect the severity of the offense and provide a sense of justice to victims and society.

The interpretation of statutes plays a pivotal role in applying laws to achieve justice effectively. Judges and jurists employ liberal interpretations when interpreting remedial laws, allowing flexibility to ensure that the intent of the law serves justice comprehensively. This approach enables judges to consider broader societal impacts and contexts when applying legal principles.

In contrast, strict interpretations are typically applied to penal laws, where the principle of proportionality governs the severity of punishments. These interpretations constrain judicial discretion to ensure that penalties are commensurate with the offense and adhere strictly to legal principles.

However, justice is a complex and multifaceted concept that transcends mere adherence to laws. It encompasses ethical considerations, societal values, and the impact of legal decisions on individuals and communities. Justice is not always synonymous with equality; rather, it involves balancing competing interests and ensuring that legal outcomes are fair and justifiable within the framework of legal jurisprudence.

As we strive for justice through the application of laws, it is crucial to consider the broader implications and societal consequences of legal decisions. Upholding justice requires a delicate balance between enforcing laws and safeguarding individual rights and freedoms. Ultimately, the pursuit of justice through law must be guided by principles of legal and social morality, ensuring that legal outcomes serve the collective good while upholding fundamental human rights.