Hyderabad: The President of India, Droupadi Murmu, graced the 21st convocation ceremony of NALSAR University of Law today, delivering a powerful address to graduating students on the ideals of justice, equality, and integrity in the legal profession. Held at the university campus in Hyderabad, Telangana, the event marked a significant moment for the institution and its graduates as they prepare to enter the world of law.
In her speech, President Murmu emphasized the foundational values of the Indian Constitution, particularly those enshrined in the Preamble: justice, liberty, equality, and fraternity. She highlighted that these ideals, born out of India’s freedom struggle, must be actively upheld, especially in the delivery of justice.
“The Directive Principles of State Policy ensure equal justice and free legal aid, making it the State’s responsibility to ensure that opportunities for securing justice are not denied to any citizen by reason of economic or other disabilities,” the President said. However, she noted that access to justice remains unequal in many cases, with the poor often not receiving the same level of legal representation as the wealthy. “This unfair situation must change for the better,” she urged, calling on young legal professionals to be agents of change.
Addressing the graduating class, President Murmu reminded them of their duty as advocates to assist the court in the fair dispensation of justice, while also safeguarding the interests of their clients. “Whatever role you choose as a legal professional, always stick to the values of integrity and courage. Speaking truth to power will make you more powerful,” she advised.
President Murmu lauded NALSAR University for its leadership in addressing key issues such as disability rights, access to justice, prison and juvenile justice reform, and legal aid. She praised the university for its progressive approach and commitment to societal welfare, particularly commending the establishment of the Animal Law Centre at NALSAR. “The younger generations are expected to protect animals, birds, trees, and water bodies as necessities for the well-being of humanity. NALSAR’s Animal Law Centre is a commendable step in that direction,” she said.
In addition to her call for social justice, the President highlighted the need for collective efforts to ensure the safety and security of women in society. She urged NALSAR University, including its alumni network, to spearhead the creation of a nationwide network of women advocates and law students dedicated to preventing atrocities against women and handling such cases with rigor and sensitivity.
“Every segment of society is a stakeholder in promoting the safety of women. I am confident that this network, working with a clear mandate, will make a concerted effort to address and prevent atrocities against women,” the President stated.