New Delhi: Supreme Court judge Justice BV Nagarathna on Saturday underscored the role of an independent judiciary and an independent bar in sustaining the rule of law and strengthening democracy in India. She was speaking at the convocation ceremony of the National Law University, Delhi.
“Rule of law being the most significant characteristic of good governance prevails because India has an independent judiciary which has been sustained amongst others because of support and assistance from an independent bar,” Justice Nagarathna said.
She linked the survival of democracy to the mutual commitment of both lawyers and judges, stressing that the responsibility to uphold the Constitution rests not just with those in power but with every lawyer.
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Lawyers as Stewards of the Constitution
Quoting Dr. B.R. Ambedkar, Justice Nagarathna said the Constitution would only be as effective as those entrusted with its implementation. She reminded graduating students that lawyers are “stewards of the Constitution for life” and must act as its advocates both inside and outside the courtroom.
“The responsibility to work the Constitution in all its magnanimity and good intentions does not lie only with the people of the power corridors but it extends to every lawyer,” she remarked.
Integrity Over Technical Expertise
Justice Nagarathna emphasized that integrity, rather than brilliance or technical expertise, forms the foundation of a fulfilling legal career.
“Integrity is built not in a day, but over years, in every choice you make, in every argument you decline to twist, in every opportunity you forego because it compromises your principles,” she said.
Law as Public Service
Describing law as a form of public service, she said that with the power to interpret, argue and persuade comes a duty to use those skills in service of justice rather than personal gain.
“Too often the law is seen as a fortress accessible to the rich and powerful, but in your hands it must become a bridge — a bridge between rights and remedies, Constitution and citizen, between justice and people,” she urged the graduates.
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Human Dignity at the Core
Justice Nagarathna called upon the young lawyers to treat law not merely as rules but as a tool to advance human dignity and equality. “Law is not just about rules; it is about creating conditions in which human dignity can flourish,” she said, adding that lawyers must act as translators of the Constitution into “the language of people’s lives.”
Redefining Success
Concluding her address, she advised graduates to measure success not by financial gains but by the positive social impact they create.
“Remember, the measure of your success should not be merely financial, but also the positive impact you make on the society,” she said.
In her address, Justice BV Nagarathna emphasized the importance of an independent judiciary in upholding the rule of law. She urged the graduates to view the law as a means to serve justice rather than personal interests. She emphasized the role of lawyers in promoting human dignity and equality through their work. Justice Nagarathna encouraged the young lawyers to redefine success. Success should be based on the positive social impact they make. It should not be solely focused on monetary gains.
In her address, Justice BV Nagarathna stressed the significance of an independent judiciary in upholding the rule of law. She urged graduates to perceive the law as a tool for dispensing justice, rather than pursuing personal gains. Justice Nagarathna highlighted lawyers’ responsibility in advocating for human dignity and equality through their practice. She prompted the aspiring lawyers to redefine success, valuing the positive societal influence they can exert over mere financial achievements.
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