CJI asks graduates to be torch-bearers of rule of law

Cuttack: Chief Justice of India T S Thakur today called upon the fresh law graduates to touch the lives of the people by helping them in their pursuit for justice -- social, economic and political, as envisioned in the Constitution.

Law education of the students would remain incomplete if it doesn't help the growth of an inclusive society, he said while delivering the 3rd convocation address of National Law University of Odisha here.

"The society will look up to you as a torch-bearer of rule of law and an inclusive society cannot develop in isolation," justice Thakur said, while asking the law graduates to listen to the voices from various backgrounds, regardless of their caste, creed and gender and to be tolerant to accommodate their viewpoints.

"Legal education creates an acceptable and conducive environment for the disadvantaged and underprivileged sections of our society, who are often neglected and left behind due to economic disparity, undeserved neglect and many other social evils," he said.

He urged the law graduates to live up to their vows by transcending the traditional role of a lawyer and providing help and assistance to those who are distressed and exploited both by state and non-state actors.

A total of 108 students received LLB degrees, 25 LLM degrees and two were awarded with PhD. A total of 17 gold medals in different categories were awarded to the students for their outstanding performances.

Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik, Justice Dipak Misra of the Supreme Court, who is also the visitor of the University, and Chief Justice of Orissa High Court Vineet Saran, who is also the Chancellor of the University, were present on the occasion.