Support Poor Law Students to Build Careers: CJI Surya Kant
CJI Surya Kant calls for financial aid for underprivileged law students to help them navigate the initial years of their legal careers.
Chief Justice of India (CJI) Surya Kant has made a passionate plea to identify and provide financial assistance to underprivileged students aspiring to build a career in law. Emphasizing that the initial years of legal practice are often the most challenging, the CJI highlighted the need for a support system to help these students establish themselves in the profession.
Bridging the Financial Gap in Legal Education
Speaking at the 1st National Conference on the "Life, Struggle and Constitutional Legacy of Bharat Ratna Dr B.R. Ambedkar" held at Bharat Mandapam, CJI Surya Kant stressed that providing financial aid is not just a gesture of kindness, but a collective duty and responsibility.
The CJI suggested that while annual conferences are important, there must be a concrete effort to find students from poor backgrounds who are pursuing law. He specifically pointed out that financial support should extend beyond their studies to cover the first three to five years of their professional struggle, allowing them the stability needed to create their own space in the competitive legal landscape.
"It is our duty and responsibility to provide financial assistance when they are doing their law. It is our responsibility to see that they come out after passing the law... so that they can, for the initial three to five years of the struggle, create a space for themselves."
The Critical Role of District Courts and Mentorship
In a separate address during a felicitation program organized by the Coordination Committee of All Delhi District Bar Associations at Rouse Avenue District Court, CJI Surya Kant discussed the pivotal role of the lower judiciary. He noted that for most citizens, the District Court is the first point of contact with the judicial system. He remarked that seekers of justice often arrive with significant apprehensions and require proper legal assistance to navigate the process.
The Power of Senior Guidance
The Chief Justice also reflected on the profound impact a mentor can have on a budding lawyer's trajectory. Recalling his own early days starting legal practice at the High Court in Chandigarh, he stated that a senior advocate has the power to completely transform a young lawyer's career.
Recognizing Women in the Legal Profession
During his remarks, CJI Surya Kant also took the opportunity to highlight the growing and vital contribution of women lawyers. He acknowledged their leadership roles within Bar Associations and at various other levels of the legal fraternity, celebrating their impact on the profession.