Chief Justice of India (CJI), Dhananjay Chandrachud, delivered a keynote address emphasising the critical role of integrity in the legal profession’s future during an event titled ‘Enhancing collaboration between Advocates & Judges: Towards strengthening legal system.’ The CJI highlighted that lawyers, judges, and the legal system as a whole must prioritise integrity to ensure the profession’s continued success.
CJI Chandrachud emphasised that the legal profession thrives when there is mutual respect between lawyers and judges. He stressed that this respect arises from the realisation that both are integral components of the justice system.
The CJI underscored that integrity is the core of the legal profession. He noted that it is not undermined by a single significant event but gradually erodes through minor concessions and compromises made by lawyers and judges over time. Chandrachud highlighted the significance of individual conscience in maintaining integrity. He stated that while individuals may deceive the world, they cannot deceive their conscience, which constantly questions their actions.
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The CJI addressed the issue of gender equality within the legal profession. He emphasised that creating equal opportunities in the legal field is essential and that it is not solely a women’s issue but also a concern for men. Chandrachud discussed the need to evaluate the profession’s composition to determine its future.
Chandrachud mentioned the challenge of insufficient representation of women in the judiciary. He explained that this situation is reflective of the composition of the legal profession several decades ago when current judges were practising lawyers. He highlighted the need for judges and lawyers to ensure women have a significant presence in the legal system.
Chief Justice Chandrachud’s address underlines the pivotal role of integrity in the legal profession’s sustainability and success. His remarks about mutual respect between lawyers and judges, the importance of individual conscience, and the imperative for gender equality reflect the need for continuous improvement and inclusivity within the legal field to strengthen the justice system.
