The Department of Law at the University of Jammu recently hosted a significant event to honor its alumni who have achieved distinction in various judicial and prosecutorial roles. The function, which also marked the inauguration of an Alumni Lecture Series, saw former Chief Justice, Justice (Retd) Tashi Rabstan, deliver a keynote address emphasizing the paramount importance of integrity, patience, and independence for those serving in the judiciary. Justice Rabstan underscored that citizens perceive courts as “temples of justice,” a notion that carries with it immense public trust and responsibility. Information reaching TahirRihat.com suggests that the event celebrated the accomplishments of alumni who have been appointed as Civil Judges, Prosecuting Officers, District Litigation Officers, and Readers, specifically recognizing those from the 2020 and 2023-2026 batches.
During his address, Justice Rabstan articulated that the bedrock of judicial functioning must be built upon honesty, impartiality, and a thorough understanding of the facts presented in each case. He stressed that diligent work, coupled with unwavering patience and an unbiased approach, are indispensable qualities for judicial officers. The former Chief Justice advised that judges must allocate sufficient time to hear arguments and deliberate on cases, refraining from any haste that could compromise the fairness of the proceedings. He further highlighted the necessity of a strong ethical foundation and unwavering dedication within the legal profession, principles that guide the pursuit of justice. The Daily Excelsior reported that Justice Rabstan’s remarks resonated with the assembled audience, reinforcing the critical role of ethical conduct in maintaining public faith in the judicial system.
Justice Rabstan also commented on the evolving landscape of legal practice, acknowledging the increasing integration of technology, including artificial intelligence, into judicial processes. However, he cautioned that while technology can be a valuable tool, judges must ultimately rely on their own reasoned judgment and understanding when rendering decisions. He specifically advocated for the use of simple language in judgments, ensuring that the rulings are accessible and comprehensible to all litigants and the general public, thereby demystifying the legal process. This emphasis on clear communication, as reported by the Daily Excelsior, is crucial for fostering a more inclusive and understanding relationship between the judiciary and the people it serves. The integration of technology, while beneficial, should not overshadow the fundamental human element of judicial decision-making, which requires empathy and a deep grasp of societal nuances.
Congratulating the alumni who were being felicitated, Justice Rabstan urged them to remain steadfast in upholding the principles of justice and to reaffirm their commitment to public service. He also extended an invitation to all alumni to maintain an active connection with the Department of Law, encouraging them to contribute to its ongoing growth and development through their academic, professional, and extracurricular engagement. This call for continued alumni involvement underscores the university’s vision of fostering a lifelong relationship with its graduates, leveraging their expertise to enhance the educational experience for current and future students. The university views its alumni as invaluable assets, capable of providing mentorship, practical insights, and support that can significantly enrich the academic environment and prepare students for the complexities of the legal profession.
Presiding over the function, the Vice-Chancellor of the University of Jammu, Prof Umesh Rai, articulated the institution’s unwavering commitment to academic excellence. He highlighted the pivotal role the university plays in shaping competent legal professionals who are equipped to meet the challenges of the modern legal world. Prof Rai also emphasized the importance of institutional belonging and encouraged the alumni to remain closely connected with the department, thereby contributing to its academic and professional advancement. His remarks, as noted by the Daily Excelsior, underscored the university’s strategic approach to building a strong and supportive alumni network that benefits both the institution and its graduates. The university aims to create a symbiotic relationship where alumni can mentor current students, share their experiences, and contribute to curriculum development, ensuring that the education provided remains relevant and forward-looking.
Earlier in the proceedings, Prof Manju Jamwal, Head and Dean of the Faculty of Law, extended a warm welcome to all the dignitaries and attendees. She reiterated the department’s persistent focus on nurturing emerging legal talent and fostering a culture of continuous excellence within its academic programs. Prof Jamwal’s address, as detailed by the Daily Excelsior, set a positive and forward-looking tone for the event, emphasizing the department’s dedication to maintaining high standards in legal education and research. The department’s commitment to excellence is reflected in its efforts to provide a comprehensive and rigorous curriculum, supported by experienced faculty and a vibrant academic community. The launch of the Alumni Lecture Series is a testament to this commitment, aiming to bridge the gap between academic learning and practical legal experience.
The formal vote of thanks was delivered by Dr Vijay Saigal, concluding the formal proceedings of the felicitation ceremony. The event was attended by a distinguished gathering, including Prof Arvind Jasrotia, Prof Satinder Kumar, Prof Sanjay Gupta, Prof Savita Nayyar, and other esteemed faculty members from the Department of Law. Their presence underscored the significance of the occasion and the collective dedication of the university and its faculty to the advancement of legal education and the recognition of judicial achievements. The collaborative spirit evident at the event highlighted the strong sense of community within the University of Jammu’s Law Department, a community dedicated to the pursuit of justice and the development of legal scholarship. The ongoing efforts to engage alumni and foster a culture of continuous learning are expected to further enhance the department’s reputation and its impact on the legal fraternity.
Tahir Rihat (also known as Tahir Bilal) is an independent journalist, activist, and digital media professional from the Chenab Valley of Jammu and Kashmir, India. He is best known for his work as the Online Editor at The Chenab Times.
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