Make justice administration more responsive to citizens: Prez

President Pranab Mukherjee today called for making administration of justice more representative and responsive to the citizens.
In his address at the 12th convocation of NALSAR University of Law here, the President said shadows of the country's colonial past continue to play a predominant role "in our thinking in relation to the enforcement of rules as well as adjudication of disputes".
"It is important to gradually rework the underlying principles to make administration of justice more representative and responsive to the citizens.
"Lawyers are in a unique position to play this transformative role, be it through offering of inputs in the framing of legislations, leading cause-oriented litigations and engaging in social advocacy or research," the President, who was invited as chief guest at the University, said.

Mukherjee, who was cheered by the students, told them that whatever branch of law they may choose, the bedrock of their success should be erected "on your unflinching defence of fundamental rights of all, civil liberties and realisation of the rights of marginalised communities".
"Gaining financial security and meeting other obligations are necessary. Yet, while pursuing your professional goals, always keep in mind the values that you have imbibed during the course of your education," the President said.
"Study the Constitution well. Understand our political system, its institutions and processes. Analyse the choices that were made to build the country into what it is today," Mukherjee, who himself has been a student of law, said.

The President asked the students to recognise that intelligent choices will need to be made for enabling India reach its maximum potential and participate and contribute in making these choices.