Constitution Day programme inaugurated in Jammu

Jammu, Nov 21: In an inspiring celebration of democratic principles and constitutional values, J&K Legal Services Authority in collaboration with the District Legal Services Authority (DLSA) Jammu and Govt College for Women, Parade, Jammu today inaugurated a weeklong awareness programme in commemoration of the Constitution Day, 2024.

The event was graced by the presence of Justice Atul Sreedharan, senior-most Judge, High Court of Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh, Executive Chairman, J&K Legal Services Authority.

On his arrival, Justice Atul Sreedharan was accompanied by Amit Kumar Gupta, Member Secretary,

J&K Legal Services Authority and was warmly welcomed by DrRavender Kumar Tickoo, Principal, Govt. College for Women, Parade, Jammu, Smriti Sharma, Secretary, DLSA Jammu, Prof Jasneet Kour, HOD Political Science, Dr Gurpreet Kour, NSS Programme Officer, Dr Sunita Raina HOD Commerce, other staff members and students of the school.

The weeklong programme aims to deepen the understanding of constitutional values, fundamental rights, and duties, as enshrined in the Constitution of India. It also seeks to create awareness about the pivotal role of the judiciary and legal institutions in safeguarding these values. Through interactive sessions, discussions, and cultural activities, the programme aspires to engage students and the larger community in meaningful discourse about the essence of justice, liberty, and fraternity. The weeklong awareness programme aligns with this vision, aiming to inspire active and informed citizenship across all segments of society.

In his presidential address, Justice Atul Sreedharan emphasised the core values of the Constitution and their relevance in everyday life. He highlighted the principle of equality and brotherhood enshrined in the Constitution, urging citizens to uphold these ideals without any discrimination.

Justice Sreedharan remarked that a deep understanding of the preamble alone provides the key to grasping the essence of the entire Constitution, as it encapsulates the ideals of justice, liberty, equality, and fraternity.

He also underlined the significance of respecting the law, even in seemingly small actions like adhering to traffic rules even at late night when no person in uniform is standing there, as a mark of constitutional values. Stressing the need to prioritise good governance over caste or religion in leadership choices, he appealed for selflessness and sacrifices for the greater benefit of society.

Referring to Nani Palkhivala’s book “We, The People”, Justice Sreedharan reflected on the irony of giving "ourselves the Constitution but failing to live by its principles."

He emphasised the importance of focusing equally on fundamental duties alongside rights and urged everyone to strive to become better human beings, free from corruption, contributing meaningfully to the nation’s progress.

Dr Ravender Kumar Tickoo, Principal, GCW, Parade, Jammu, in his welcome address highlighted the necessity of creating the right awareness among the younger generations. He expressed gratitude to Justice Atul Sreedharan for choosing Govt College for Women, Parade, Jammu which was established in the pre-independence era to inaugurate this weeklong awareness campaign on the topic of such importance.

Vartika Sharma, a student of 3 rd Semester in her presentation eloquently highlighted the historical significance of the Constitution and its role as a guiding force for the nation. Her presentation resonated with the audience, especially the youth, who were inspired to explore their roles in upholding democratic values.

The event concluded with a vote of thanks by Smriti Sharma, Secretary, District Legal Services Authority Jammu, who expressed gratitude to Justice Sreedharan, the organizing committee, and all participants for their contributions to making the event a success. She emphasized the commitment of the Legal Services Authorities to promote awareness about constitutional values and ensure access to justice for all sections of society.