New Delhi: The President of India, Smt. Droupadi Murmu, graced and addressed the valedictory function of the Commonwealth Legal Education Association (CLEA) – Commonwealth Attorneys and Solicitors General Conference (CASGC) 2024 in New Delhi today. The conference, centered around the theme “Cross-Border Challenges in Justice Delivery,” brought together legal professionals, scholars, and students from diverse backgrounds to discuss critical aspects of justice and legal systems.
In her address, President Droupadi Murmu emphasized the importance of upholding what is right, just, and logically sound to define the moral order of society. Acknowledging the pivotal role of the legal profession and the judiciary in maintaining order, she highlighted their responsibility in addressing challenges and restoring justice when the order is disrupted.
Referring to the Preamble of the Indian Constitution, which speaks of “Justice, social, economic and political,” the President underscored the need to consider all aspects of justice, including social and environmental justice. In the context of climate change and global challenges, she commended the conference for addressing cross-border challenges in justice delivery and charting a roadmap to a common future based on the principles of natural justice, equality, and dignity.
The sub-theme of the conference, “Access to Justice: Bridging the Divide,” drew attention to the importance of inclusivity and accessibility in legal systems. President Droupadi Murmu expressed confidence that discussions in the conference, enriched by the participation of deans, vice-chancellors, students, and scholars, would lead to innovative solutions and ideas.
Highlighting India’s role as a key stakeholder in the global discourse, President Murmu noted that India, with its rich democratic heritage, is well-positioned to offer insights into international issues in justice delivery. She emphasized that India’s experience as the world’s largest and oldest democracy provides valuable learning for addressing contemporary challenges in justice delivery.
The conference provided a platform for participants to exchange ideas, share experiences, and contribute to shaping the future of legal education and justice delivery in the Commonwealth and beyond. President Droupadi Murmu expressed optimism that the Commonwealth, with its diversity and legacy, can lead by example in addressing common concerns through cooperation and mutual understanding.