Srinagar, Oct 10: Chief Justice of the High Court of Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh, Justice Pushpendra Singh Bhati, on Saturday called for greater participation of women in the legal profession and urged judicial institutions to embrace technology to meet changing societal expectations.
Addressing a felicitation programme organised by the Kashmir Advocates Association at the District Court Complex in Srinagar, the Chief Justice said encouraging women advocates and ensuring their active participation in the legal fraternity was essential for its progress.
His remarks came as the Association announced that it had agreed in principle to induct five women lawyers into its Executive Committee, with the decision to be formalised shortly.
Welcoming the move, Justice Bhati recalled the pioneering contribution of Cornelia Sorabji and stressed the importance of creating opportunities for women lawyers to assume greater responsibilities within the profession.
Drawing upon his experience as a practising lawyer, the Chief Justice said the legal fraternity must remain responsive to changing societal expectations and technological advancements.
He cautioned that institutions failing to adapt to emerging technologies risked being left behind.
Describing lawyers as important custodians of constitutional rights and access to justice, Justice Bhati emphasised the need for cooperation between the Bench and the Bar to strengthen the justice delivery system.
Earlier, interacting with judicial officers at the District Court Complex, the Chief Justice urged them to discharge their responsibilities fearlessly, compassionately and with an unwavering commitment to the rule of law.
He said the judiciary had a crucial responsibility to safeguard citizens’ rights, ensure access to justice and maintain public confidence in judicial institutions.
Justice Bhati stressed that collective responsibility, mutual trust and institutional harmony were essential for the effective functioning of courts.
He encouraged judicial officers to work collaboratively, maintain the highest standards of judicial conduct and create a peaceful and conducive working environment.
Expressing satisfaction with the professional competence and dedication of judicial officers serving in Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh, the Chief Justice also highlighted the importance of continuous learning and guidance from senior judicial officers.
Principal District and Sessions Judge Srinagar Naseer Ahmad Dar welcomed the Chief Justice and reaffirmed the district judiciary’s commitment to quality adjudication, timely disposal of cases and reduction of pendency.
At the felicitation programme, Kashmir Advocates Association president Waseem Gul highlighted the role of district courts as the first accessible forum of justice for ordinary citizens.
He emphasised the importance of constructive cooperation between the Bench and the Bar and sought the Chief Justice’s guidance on improving court infrastructure and facilities for lawyers and litigants.
Gul also called for strengthening legal aid services, promoting alternative dispute resolution mechanisms and introducing structured training programmes for young advocates.
He assured the Association’s cooperation in improving the administration of justice and welcomed the newly appointed Principal District and Sessions Judge Srinagar.
The Chief Justice appreciated the Association’s decision to include women lawyers in its executive body and reiterated the need for professional cooperation, technological adaptation and inclusive participation in the legal system.
The interactions focused on strengthening judicial institutions, improving access to justice and preserving the dignity and independence of the judiciary.
