GANDERBAL: The Department of Law at the Central University of Kashmir (CUKashmir) commemorated the 76th Constitution Day with a distinguished program featuring prominent jurists, university officials, faculty, research scholars, and students.
Hon’ble Shri Justice Sanjeev Kumar Shukla, Judge of the Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh High Court, served as the chief guest, while Hon’ble Shri Justice Vineet Kothari, former Judge of Gujarat High Court, participated as guest of honor via online. CUKashmir Vice Chancellor Prof. A. Ravinder Nath, along with senior academic leaders and officials, attended the event.
Justice Shukla delivered an insightful address on key constitutional principles such as sovereignty, democracy, secularism, and social justice. He emphasized that many of these values predate their formal inclusion in the Constitution, stemming from the French Revolution and Indian history. He highlighted Articles 14, 15, 16, 19, 21, 25-28, and 39A, stressing the importance of religious tolerance and the spirit of secularism. He urged students to uphold constitutional morality, emphasizing that respecting faith and individual dignity safeguards national unity.
Justice Kothari described India’s constitution as “the most detailed and deeply researched,” crafted through extensive debate and study of global models. He underscored fraternity—ensuring dignity and unity among diverse communities—as vital for India’s social fabric. He called on students to reflect on their fundamental duties, which complement rights and foster responsible citizenship.
Vice-Chancellor Prof. Nath praised the School of Legal Studies’ role in societal outreach and urged students to move beyond textbooks, engaging in experiential learning and multidisciplinary approaches aligned with constitutional values, including ethics, environmental awareness, and Indian knowledge systems.
Dean Prof. Farooq Mir highlighted the School’s progress, including legal aid initiatives, internships, and outreach programs, emphasizing the importance of serving society’s vulnerable through legal service.
The program was conducted by Sr. Asst. Prof. Dr. Gulafroz Jan, with Prof. Bilal Ahmad Ganai proposing the vote of thanks. Faculty, staff, and students across campuses also observed the day by reciting the Preamble to the Constitution.