JU Law Dept honours judicial achievers; Justice Tashi Rabstan calls for integrity in bench

Justice Tashi Rabstan and VC Prof Umesh Rai with alumni of JU Law Dept who have qualified as Judicial officers.
Justice Tashi Rabstan and VC Prof Umesh Rai with alumni of JU Law Dept who have qualified as Judicial officers.

Excelsior Correspondent
JAMMU, Apr 21: Former Chief Justice, Justice (Retd) Tashi Rabstan on Tuesday urged newly appointed judicial officers to uphold integrity, patience and independence while discharging their duties, stating that courts are viewed by citizens as “temples of justice” and carry immense public trust.
He was speaking at a felicitation function organised by the Department of Law, University of Jammu, where alumni were honoured for their achievements as Civil Judges, Prosecuting Officers, District Litigation Officers and Readers (2020 and 2023-2026 batches), along with the launch of an Alumni Lecture Series.
Addressing the gathering, Justice Rabstan said the judiciary must remain guided by honesty, impartiality and a clear understanding of facts. “Hard work, patience and an unbiased approach are essential. Judges must give adequate time to arguments and not rush through cases,” he said, emphasising integrity, dedication and a strong ethical foundation in the legal profession.
Highlighting changing trends, Rabstan noted that while technology, including artificial intelligence, is increasingly being used in legal processes, judges must rely on their own understanding and write judgments in simple language accessible to litigants and the public.
Congratulating the achievers, Rabstan urged them to uphold the principles of justice and remain committed to public service. He also called upon alumni to remain actively connected with the department and contribute to its growth through academic, professional and extracurricular engagement.
Presiding over the event, Vice-Chancellor, University of Jammu, Prof Umesh Rai, highlighted the institution’s commitment to academic excellence and its role in shaping competent legal professionals. He also stressed the importance of institutional belonging and encouraged alumni to remain connected with the department, contributing to its academic and professional growth.
Earlier, Prof Manju Jamwal, Head and Dean, Faculty of Law, welcomed the dignitaries reiterating the Department’s continued focus on nurturing talent and encouraging a culture of excellence.
The formal vote of thanks was delivered by Dr Vijay Saigal. Among others present on the occasion included Prof Arvind Jasrotia. Prof Satinder Kumar, Prof Sanjay Gupta, Prof Savita Nayyar, and other faculty members from the Department of Law.