Strive to decimate inequalities, said Justice Dhananjay Y Chandrachud of the Supreme Court of India, while addressing graduating students at the Gujarat National Law University (GNLU) on Sunday. Justice A K Sikri of the Supreme Court called upon the students to uphold the law and bridge the gap between law and the society.
Justice Chandrachud said that there are disturbing inequalities in Indian society. "There is a disparity in access to opportunities, particularly access to education. Many do not have even primary education. You had a great primary education and an excellent higher education. Make use of your education to the benefit of those who do not have the means to do that. Aspire to build and inclusive future," said Justice Chandrachud.
He said that there are glaring examples of denials as the the society has failed to grant its citizens an equal and humane existence. "You may strive to decimate these inequalities," he said referring to denial of housing on the grounds of religion, denial of basic human rights for those involved in manual scavenging, denying women access to public places on the grounds of their menstrual status and the fact that dalits are subjected to indignity.
"Our Constitution envisages an egalitarian society. But it you citizens and young students, who can make it a reality," he said.
Delivering his convocation lecture, Justice A K Sikri said called upon the pass outs to grab every opportunity and take initiative to make a difference. He advised them not to indulge in delaying tactics, when give a chance to represent the case in the court. "Read the brief properly. Prepare yourself as if you are going to argue and not the senior lawyer. Have faith in the Judge. Judges discuss among themselves about advocates during lunch time, just as advocates discuss about judges. So always be prepared," said Justice Sikri. He said that Indian society is undergoing a transformation and the values of democracy are at stake. He called upon the students to uphold the law and increase the abidance of law in the society. He said that Judges cannot impart justice, unless they are ably assisted by advocates.