Matter of concern that young law grads are shunning district courts, says Justice Surya Kant

Justice Kant said the judicial system is set into motion at the grassroots level and district courts are the first meeting points of the consumers of justice, where young lawyers can work efficiently.

“Legal profession is a noble one, and is not to be mistaken as a common trade,” Justice Kant said speaking at the 6th Law Convocation held at Panjab University (PU) in Chandigarh, where more than 650 students were awarded degrees.

The Chief Guest at the occasion was SC judge Justice B R Gavai, who along with Justice Kant and Punjab and Haryana High Court Chief Justice Sheel Nagu, attended the convocation programme.

Quoting Dr B R Ambedkar, Justice Kant said, “However good a Constitution may be, if those who are implementing it are not good, it will prove to be bad. However bad a Constitution may be, if those implementing it are good, it will prove to be good,” asking the law graduates to “become the custodian of Justice”. If the foundation is not strong, the structure will not be sustainable, he said.

“The art of drafting, which is the soul of the legal profession, cross-examination, ability to argue and other skills are best sharpened at the district court level. So, practising before district courts can bring these opportunities which the fresh law graduates must explore,” Justice Kant said.

Justice Kant advised law graduates, “If they initially begin with practising at district courts, then to High Courts and the Supreme Court, it will help them to develop a better understanding about initial drafting of cases.”

Justice Gavai in his convocation address focused on championing justice for the marginalised and the importance of hard work, and motivated the students to aim for higher goals in their lives.

Justice Gavai also highlighted the possibility of working in new emerging areas where lawyers could hone their skills. Earlier, Director, UILS, Professor Shruti Bedi and Professor Dr Vandana Arora, chairperson of the Department of Laws felicitated the guests of honour and extended a warm welcome to all.

PU Vice-Chancellor Professor Renu Vig inaugurated the 6th Law Convocation and delivered the opening remarks, elaborating upon the purpose of education, building strong character, handling various challenges of life and becoming financially independent.