Justice
Sanjiv Khanna, the Chief Justice of India, recently urged legal professionals
to keep the democratic spirit of the Indian Bar alive by embracing curiosity.
Addressing the Grand Finale of the AmiQuiz Curiae National Legal Quiz
through his law clerk due to a sudden illness, he emphasized the importance of
debating, discussing, and quizzing as vital exercises for keeping the Bar
engaged with social developments and evolving legal issues.
In his
message to young lawyers, Justice Khanna remarked:
"The
Bar is more than just a participant in the justice system. A proactive Bar
strengthens the rule of law by critically engaging with legal developments and
advocating for reforms when necessary. It must actively contribute to the
growth of the law. Participation in competitions like quizzes and debates
ensures that the justice system is constantly evolving."
Key Issues for Legal Debate
Encouraging
the legal fraternity to engage in meaningful discourse, he posed four
thought-provoking questions for contemporary deliberation:
- How do senior advocates
raise the Bar?
- Is legalese the antithesis
of justice?
- Do Indian courts excessively
rely on foreign jurisprudence?
- Is there nepotism within the
Indian Bar?
The Need for Continuous Learning
Justice
Khanna also underscored the importance of being in constant dialogue with
society. He noted that young legal professionals often mistake certainty for
strength, while true strength lies in adapting to changing times.
"The
legal field is unique in its demand for constant learning. Every case,
argument, and courtroom experience is an examination. Unlike other professions,
law extends beyond individual success—it requires active engagement with
society. In a world driven by quick reels and shifting opinions, changing one's
perspective is often seen as a weakness. However, true intelligence is not
about knowing it all—it’s about staying curious and striving to grow."
A Call for an Active Bar
He
concluded by asserting that a vibrant, engaged, and self-reflective Bar is
essential for a thriving democracy.
"The
Bar must not be a passive observer but an active force in shaping the
profession and the justice system at large."
The event
was also attended by Justice D.K. Upadhyaya, Chief Justice of the Delhi High
Court, along with Senior Advocate Dr. S. Muralidhar and Supreme Court Bar
Association President, Senior Advocate Kapil Sibal.
