Justice Parihar, Justice Wani call for integrity, compassion in legal profession
Nishikant Khajuria
JAMMU, Nov 2: Underlining that the judiciary has stood as a bulwark against the abuse of law, Justice Wasim Sadiq Nargal of High Court of J&K and Ladakh said that in a constitutional democracy, power must always bow before principle, and authority must always answer to the rule of law.
Follow the Daily Excelsior channel on WhatsApp
While addressing the valedictory function of the Trial Moot Court Competition, organised by the Department of Law, University of Jammu, which brought together judges, legal experts, academicians and students in a vibrant exchange of ideas, Justice Nargal also underscored the moral and professional values that form the backbone of the legal profession.
The same was stressed by Justice Sanjay Parihar and Justice Mohammad Yusuf Wani of the High Court of J&K and Ladakh, who also graced the occasion and asked budding lawyers to uphold integrity, preparation and compassion as guiding virtues in their careers.
Justice Nargal said that Judges too bear a profound responsibility and the courtroom is not merely a hall of law, but the conscience of the Republic. Our duty is not just to interpret statutes but to uphold constitutional values liberty, equality, and justice, he added.
“Even in more recent times, through judgments addressing environmental degradation, arbitrary demolitions, or misuse of authority, the judiciary has stood as a bulwark against the abuse of law. The message is clear in a constitutional democracy, power must always bow before principle, and authority must always answer to the rule of law,” stressed Justice Nargal.
“The judiciary must remain ever conscious that every judgment we write echoes beyond the courtroom, it shapes social behaviour, influences governance, and builds public trust. The majesty of the judiciary does not lie in the robes we wear, but in the reasoning we deliver and the fairness we embody,” he added.
Highlighting the judiciary’s role in upholding constitutional values, he cited landmark Supreme Court judgments including Kesavananda Bharati, Vishaka, Puttaswamy and Navtej Johar as milestones that strengthened liberty, equality and dignity.
Preetam Surana, Partner and Head (Academic Initiatives), Surana & Surana International Attorneys, Chennai; Prof Neelu Rohmetra, Dean Research Studies, JU (Representing Vice-Chancellor) and Prof Manju Jamwal, Dean and Head, Department of Law, JU also graced the occasion.
Justice Nargal noted that law demands discipline, endurance and faith. “The courtroom rewards discipline, not dramatics. The profession is not about winning every case but about earning respect every day,” he advised the students.
He reminded students that every case carries a human story of hope and struggle. “A good lawyer argues well, but a great lawyer argues with conscience,” he added.
Appreciating the University’s commitment to nurturing legal talent, he urged the Law Department to promote clinical legal education, trial advocacy programmes, and engagement with courts and the Bar. He also called for greater focus on emerging areas such as legal technology, environmental law, human rights, and public policy.
While acknowledging the growing use of artificial intelligence and virtual hearings, he cautioned that technology must serve humanity. “Algorithms can process data, but only conscience can deliver justice,” he said.
He urged students to carry forward the values of integrity, preparation and compassion. “Integrity will give you respect, preparation will give you strength, and compassion will give you purpose. Every day spent in the service of justice is a day well lived,” he said.
Justice Sanjay Parihar, in his address, said that laws are framed for betterment of the society, but what is more important is the person who applies the law and he has to be fully aware of the provisions.
“If a Lawer or prosecutor or Police officer understand the idea behind the law, then he would be able to project the case accordingly,” he explained and added that an Advocate should be well conversant with the law, the facts and ability to project his case and persuade the man sitting on the bench.
Lauding the University and its Law Department for organizing the competition, he said such initiatives blend academic rigour with practical learning – the foundation of professional excellence in the legal field. “Today’s event is not just a competition; it is a celebration of intellect, discipline, and the spirit of justice,” he remarked.
Justice Mohd Yusuf Wani, in his address, said there is no other profession as noble, decent and excellent in terms of social service, maintain peace and tranquillity as the profession of Law.
He advised students that their credibility would be determined how deeply they think and prepare. “A good lawyer argues well, but a great lawyer argues with conscience,” he reminded.
Praising the University of Jammu for nurturing young legal minds, he urged the institution to continue promoting clinical legal education, trial advocacy programmes, and stronger engagement with courts and the Bar.
On the role of teachers, he observed that they are the true architects of the future. “You do not merely teach law; you shape minds and instil values. The integrity you instil today will guide tomorrow’s judges and lawyers,” he said.
Preetam Surana, Partner and Head (Academic Initiatives), Surana & Surana International Attorneys, Chennai and Prof Neelu Rohmetra also spoke on the occasion.
The post Power must always bow before principle, authority must always answer to rule of law: Justice Nargal appeared first on Daily Excelsior.