Supreme Court Justice Ujjal Bhuyan, in a recent address, highlighted the essence of perseverance and dedication required in the legal profession. Speaking at an event organized by the Pune Bar Association (PBA) to honor four distinguished advocates—BE Avhad, ND Pawar, Vijay Nahar, and Viraj Kakade—Justice Bhuyan urged lawyers to remain vigilant and ensure that personal biases related to caste, faith, or belief do not interfere with professional fraternity.
"I do not have any magic mantra but can only tell young lawyers that success must be built on hard work and not at the expense of others. The legal profession has enough space for everyone to shine. We are like a family—let nothing vitiate this fraternity."
He emphasized that maintaining the independence of the judiciary is crucial for democracy to flourish. The Bar, he stated, must act as a watchdog to preserve this independence and should not hesitate to "call a spade a spade."
Read Also:- Supreme Court Judges' Manipur Visit | Justice Gavai Stresses Legal and Humanitarian Support
Reflecting on his tenure in Maharashtra, Justice Bhuyan praised the state's progressive and liberal ethos. He encouraged lawyers to uphold the values of brotherhood and fraternity, regardless of caste, faith, or regional differences.
"This state has produced numerous reformers and political thinkers. As torchbearers of society, lawyers must maintain the spirit of fraternity, respect for colleagues, and professional integrity."
Justice Bhuyan reiterated the views of legal scholar Prof. Upendra Baxi on the essential qualities of a judge:
"Spine, spine, and only spine."
Justice Bhuyan called for an end to the use of the term "subordinate judiciary" for district and lower courts, arguing that such terminology reflects a colonial mindset.
"While there exists a hierarchy of courts, it does not mean that each level is subordinate to the other. No court of law is inferior or superior; every court plays a crucial role in the justice system."
He referred to a ruling by Justice Abhay Oka, reinforcing that trial courts should not be seen as subordinate to high courts. He also cited the legacy of Justice HR Khanna, who built his career practicing in district courts, to underline that legal excellence does not require starting from a high court or the Supreme Court.
"Some of the greatest judges and lawyers have begun their journeys in trial courts. The true essence of justice is upheld at every level of the judiciary."
Justice Bhuyan emphasized the need to address judicial pendency, urging lawyers to consider the litigants' perspectives.
"Every litigant wants to know when their case will be resolved. Judges and lawyers alike must work toward ensuring timely justice."
He suggested leveraging Section 89 of the Civil Procedure Code (CPC), which promotes alternative dispute resolution methods, to ease the burden on courts and expedite justice.
Read Also:- Supreme Court To Address Rohingya Refugee Deportation and Welfare Issues on May 8
Addressing young lawyers, Justice Bhuyan compared the legal profession to a Test match rather than a 20-20 game, emphasizing the need for endurance and technical skill.
"The legal profession is not a 20-20 IPL match or even a one-day international; it is a Test match. One must be technically sound, ready to play long innings, and prepared to face challenges, be it spinners, fast bowlers, or bouncers."
He urged lawyers to remain committed to their practice and emphasized that law is not rocket science but requires dedication and perseverance.
"Law is a jealous mistress. It demands commitment, hard work, and unwavering dedication."
