Four Key Issues Which The Bar Must Discuss : CJI Sanjiv Khanna Highlights

The Chief Justice of India, Justice Sanjiv Khanna recently encouraged the legal professionals to keep the democractic spirit of the Indian Bar alive with the art of curiosity. 

Justice Khanna ,who was invited as the Guest Honour for the Grand Finale of AmiQuiz Curiae National Legal Quiz, delivered his address through his law clerk at the event due to sudden illness. In his message to young lawyers, he stressed the significance of debating, discussing and quizzing as key exercises in keeping the bar surcharged on social developments and evolving legal issues. 

He also posed four important questions, worthy of contemporary deliberation. He expressed : 

"The bar is more than 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 debating ensures that the justice system is constantly evolving." 

"In this spirit,it is my suggestion that the bar actively debate and discuss on the following issues :

(1) How do senior advocates raise the bar?

(2) Is legalese the antithesis of Justice?

(3) Do Indian Courts excessively rely upon foreign jurisprudence?

(4) Is there nepotism within the Indian Bar?" 

Justice Khanna also highlighted the importance of being in constant dialogue with the society and underlined how the youngsters often misunderstand certainty of future as strength but in fact true strength lies in the spirit to grow with changing times. 

"The legal field is unique. In that, it demands constant learning. Every case, argument, courtroom experience is an examination. Unlike other professions, law goes beyond individual success. It involves engaging with the society at large. 

In a world driven by quick reels and changing opinions, changing one's perspective is often seen as a weakness. Certainity is mistaken for strength. However, true intelligence is not about knowing it all, its about staying curious and striving to grow." 

He concluded by opining, "A vibrant, engaged and self-reflective bar is essential to our democracy. It must not be a passive observer but an active force in shaping the profession and the justice system at large." 

Justice DK Upadhyaya, Chief Justice of the Delhi High Court; Senior Advocate Dr S. Muralidhar and Senior Advocate Kapil Sibal, President of the Supreme Court Bar Association were also present at the event. 

Also read - Grand Finale Of AmiQuiz Curiae National Legal Quiz Held In Delhi

The video of the event can be seen here.