The Chief Justice of India UU Lalit observed that legal aid in India is a neglected field of law and said that the young lawyers should devote time to change this situation.
CJI UU Lalit said this while he was addressing the convocation ceremony for the final year law students of National Law University, Cuttack, Orissa. CJI Lalit held the position of the Executive Chairperson of the National Legal Services Authority from May 2021 till his elevation as Chief Justice.
He said that after having been associated with legal aid work, I do not mean to complain or show disrespect, but tell the truth that the legal aid in this country is neglected.
He advised the future law fraternity to think and devote some time for it. CJI told them to think with compassion, as it will guide them to give back to the society.
He wished them luck in their new pursuits, dimensions, with the honour that society will now bestow on them.
Walking back in the bylanes of 38 years in Bar and Bench CJI Lalit told the new law graduates that they must have passion for it and immerse themselves in it to the best of their ability.
He went on to say that not only passion for the law, but also compassion for fellow human beings in necessary for a fulfilling career.
CJI added that the one should have a code of conduct towards the fellow human beings. One of the options to be considered, apart from corporate law and litigation is adjudication, that is the judicial service. It is the most promising and satisfying one.
CJI also spoke of how lawyers have always been the front runner in areas of justice. He added that the history of many countries shows that those who are legally trained have been the path breakers, beacons and the centre of attraction in raising voices against injustice.