CUK marks Constitution Day with insightful addresses by eminent jurists

Ganderbal, Nov 26: The Department of Law, School of Legal Studies at the Central University of Kashmir (CUKashmir) observed the 76th Constitution Day with an academically enriching programme featuring eminent jurists, senior administrators, faculty members, scholars and students.

Justice Sanjeev Kumar Shukla, Judge of the High Court of Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh, served as the Chief Guest, while Hon’ble Shri Justice Vineet Kothari, former Judge of the Gujarat High Court, joined as Guest of Honour online. CUKashmir Vice Chancellor Prof. A. Ravinder Nath, Dean Academic Affairs Prof. Shahid Rasool, Registrar Dr Nisar Ahmad Mir, Dean School of Legal Studies Prof. Farooq Ahmad Mir and other university dignitaries attended the event. Officials from J&K Legal Services Authority, district administration and police were also present.

In his address, Justice Sanjeev Kumar Shukla delivered a detailed exposition on core constitutional values—sovereignty, democracy, socialism, secularism and republicanism—emphasising their historic roots and contemporary relevance. He traced liberty, equality and fraternity to the French Revolution and elaborated on their articulation through Articles 14, 15, 16, 19, 21, 25–28 and 39A of the Constitution.

He underscored the limits of religious freedom, the essence of secularism and the responsibilities of both citizens and the state, remarking: “Our tradition teaches tolerance, our philosophy teaches tolerance, and our Constitution teaches tolerance—let us not dilute it.” Calling upon students to embrace constitutional morality, he said, “When we respect each other’s faith and recognise the dignity of every individual, we protect the unity and integrity of our nation.”

Addressing the gathering online, Justice Vineet Kothari described the Indian Constitution as one of the world’s most comprehensive and deeply researched founding documents. He stressed that a constitution derives meaning not merely from its text but from citizens’ conduct. Highlighting the often-overlooked value of fraternity, he said it is the “binding thread” in a country as diverse as India and urged students to pay equal attention to fundamental duties alongside rights.

Vice Chancellor Prof. A. Ravinder Nath praised the School of Legal Studies as “the vibrant face of the University,” applauding its academic culture and national reputation. He emphasised the need for holistic, community-driven legal education and encouraged students to engage with societal challenges, contribute to policy building and adopt experiential learning. He also highlighted plans to integrate value-based components—ethics, heritage, environmental awareness, Indian knowledge systems and gender sensitisation—into the curriculum in line with constitutional ideals.

Earlier, Dean School of Legal Studies Prof. Farooq Ahmad Mir delivered the welcome address, outlining the School’s achievements in legal education, including legal aid activities, internships, awareness drives and collaborations with the judiciary. He stressed the importance of pro bono service, saying the legal profession attains its highest purpose when it uplifts society’s most vulnerable.

The programme was conducted by Dr. Gulafroz Jan, Sr. Assistant Professor, while Assistant Professor Bilal Ahmad Ganai delivered the vote of thanks.

Faculty, staff, scholars and students across all campuses also participated in the Preamble reading to mark the day.