Justice Chandrachud highlighted the uncertainty that comes with decision-making but reassured the young graduates that it is precisely in such moments of ambiguity where character is forged…reports Asian Lite News
Chief Justice of India (CJI) DY Chandrachud, at the 32nd Annual Convocation Ceremony of the National Law School of India University (NLSIU), delivered a profound address on leadership, decision-making, and the importance of individuality. Emphasizing that true leaders acknowledge both their strengths and weaknesses, he noted that effective leadership involves using one’s strengths to uplift others while seeking assistance to cover personal blind spots.
Justice Chandrachud highlighted the uncertainty that comes with decision-making but reassured the young graduates that it is precisely in such moments of ambiguity where character is forged. He advised the students to approach life with patience and humility, underlining that the choices they make, however uncertain, are likely to have positive outcomes if they are thoughtful and patient. He reminded them that rushing decisions, especially in a fast-paced world where short-term gratification is often prioritized, can be detrimental to mental health and the achievement of long-term goals. Patience, he stressed, remains a key virtue in navigating complex, long-term challenges.
In his speech, the CJI observed that the demand for quick fixes to complicated global issues, like climate change and social justice, has led to a culture of short-term thinking. He advised the graduates to be cautious of this trend, especially in legal professions, where decisions made in haste often miss the opportunity to create lasting impact.
Justice Chandrachud urged the young graduates to not just be great minded but also be compassionate human beings.
“As a judge for twenty four years now – I can tell you that there is a reason we in Indian courts argue in the first person, not the third. We don’t argue for clients; we argue as them. After the case, we come back into our own but when it matters most, we don’t just represent clients; we become their voice, their advocate and their champion.”
Apart from his inspirational address, Justice Chandrachud laid the foundation stone for the redevelopment and expansion of NLSIU’s core Academic Block. The new JSW Academic Block, made possible by a significant grant from the JSW Group, will transform the current building into a modern multi-storey structure. The revamped facility will feature state-of-the-art lecture halls, seminar rooms, faculty offices, and collaborative research spaces. This project marks an important step in upgrading NLSIU’s infrastructure to meet the demands of its growing academic community. The CJI’s participation in the ceremony and the redevelopment project underscores his commitment to nurturing future leaders in law and justice.
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