Law must keep pace with changing society, says Justice Ravikumar
Former Supreme Court judge C.T. Ravikumar on Tuesday called upon law students to develop a strong understanding of the Constitution and the ability to present arguments in clear and persuasive language.
He was speaking at the inaugural session of the Dr. M.V.V.S. Murthi Moot Court Competition organised by the School of Law, GITAM Deemed to be University.
Justice Ravikumar, who has over four decades of experience as a lawyer and judge, said knowledge of the law was a fundamental responsibility of citizens as well as legal professionals. He urged students to study the Constitution closely, with particular attention to fundamental rights and duties.
He said the legal framework had to evolve in response to changes in society. Referring to Lord Henry Brougham’s observations on the need for laws to keep pace with social change, he said legislatures were required to enact new statutes when existing provisions could not adequately address emerging needs.
Justice Ravikumar also underscored the importance of communication in legal advocacy. Legal knowledge, he said, would have limited value if lawyers were unable to articulate their arguments effectively. He advised students to avoid excessive legal jargon and adopt language that was simple, precise and persuasive.
Describing the legal profession as demanding, particularly when cases concern life, liberty and property, he said it remained a rewarding career for those who approached it with diligence and responsibility.
Damodaram Sanjivayya National Law University Vice-Chancellor D. Surya Prakasha Rao said jurisprudence evolved with society and reflected human experience. He emphasised the need for legal methods rooted in Indian Legal Realism.
Senior Advocate and former president of the Visakhapatnam Bar Association V. Ravindra Prasad advised young lawyers to regularly observe proceedings in trial courts to gain practical experience.
GIMSR Pro Vice-Chancellor B. Geetanjali said moot court competitions helped law students develop advocacy and courtroom skills.
GITAM School of Law Director Moumita Sen said 34 teams from law schools across the country were participating in the competition. The final rounds will be held on October 10. Faculty members and students attended the inaugural programme.