Legal profession is not for faint-hearted: CJI Surya Kant at NLSIU
Source Entity
DHANANJAY MAHAPATRA
Chief Justice of India Surya Kant addressed the NLSIU convocation, overcoming external threats to ensure the ceremony's success. The event saw graduates receive their degrees, including the son of Assam CM Himanta Biswa Sarma, while the CJI emphasized the necessity of integrity in the legal profession.
Integrity Amidst Adversity: The 34th NLSIU Convocation
The 34th annual convocation of the National Law School of India University (NLSIU) in Bengaluru recently served as a poignant backdrop for a discourse on the resilience of academic and legal institutions. Chief Justice of India (CJI) Surya Kant, presiding over the ceremony, revealed that the event had faced significant uncertainty due to 'external forces' that threatened to disrupt the proceedings. Despite these challenges, the university successfully conferred degrees upon its graduates, marking a pivotal moment in their transition from students to legal professionals.
The Call for Ethical Legal Practice
Addressing the graduating class, CJI Surya Kant emphasized that the legal profession is not for the 'faint of heart.' He articulated a clear vision for the future of the Indian judiciary, urging graduates to maintain intellectual independence and possess the courage to defend justice. By highlighting the necessity of listening to diverse viewpoints, the CJI underscored that the modern legal practitioner must be a bastion of democratic values, capable of upholding the Constitution even under external pressure.
Civic Duty and State Commitment
Deputy Chief Minister of Karnataka, DK Shivakumar, also played a significant role in the ceremony, reinforcing the idea that the law is a fundamental civic duty. His presence highlighted the government's commitment to strengthening the state's legal framework. This collaborative atmosphere between the judiciary and the executive branch suggests a broader push to ensure that legal education remains a robust pillar of societal stability, preparing students to navigate the complexities of the Indian legal system.
A Personal Milestone for Assam’s Leadership
The convocation also garnered national attention for personal reasons, as Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma attended the event to witness his son, Nandil, receive his law degree. Sharing an emotional tribute on social media, CM Sarma reflected on the dedication required to achieve such a milestone, specifically mentioning his son's commitment to preparing for the Common Law Admission Test (CLAT). This personal narrative adds a human dimension to the event, showcasing the prestige associated with an NLSIU degree.
Honoring Legacy and Future Trends
Beyond the celebratory aspects, the event provided a space for reflection, with CJI Surya Kant paying tribute to Urvashi Krishnatra. Such acknowledgments serve as a reminder of the individuals who contribute to the legal community's legacy. As the legal landscape continues to evolve, the emphasis placed by the CJI on defending liberty and maintaining integrity suggests that future trends in Indian legal education will likely prioritize character building alongside traditional academic rigor to ensure graduates are equipped to handle modern societal challenges.
Multiple Citing Sources