Chief Justice Interacts with Judicial Officers, Addresses Kashmir Advocates Association in Srinagar

Srinagar : Chief Justice of the High Court of Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh, Justice Pushpendra Singh Bhati, on Saturday interacted with judicial officers at the District Court Complex in Srinagar and attended a felicitation programme organised by the Kashmir Advocates Association.

During his interaction with judicial officers, Justice Bhati emphasised the need to discharge judicial responsibilities fearlessly, compassionately and with an unwavering commitment to the rule of law. He highlighted the judiciary’s role in safeguarding citizens’ rights, ensuring access to justice and maintaining public confidence in the justice delivery system.

He stressed the importance of collective responsibility, mutual trust and institutional harmony in strengthening the functioning of courts. He also encouraged judicial officers to uphold the highest standards of judicial conduct and pursue continuous learning.

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 reducing pendency.

Later, the Kashmir Advocates Association organised a felicitation programme at the District Court Complex. Association President Advocate Waseem Gul welcomed the Chief Justice and the newly appointed Principal District and Sessions Judge, Srinagar.

Highlighting the importance of district courts as the first accessible forum of justice for ordinary citizens, Gul stressed the need for constructive cooperation between the Bench and the Bar. He also sought guidance on improving court infrastructure, enhancing facilities for lawyers and litigants, strengthening legal aid, promoting alternative dispute resolution and providing structured training for young advocates.

The Association president further announced that the association had accepted in principle the induction of five women lawyers into its Executive Committee, with the decision to be formalised shortly.

Addressing the gathering, Justice Bhati emphasised the importance of encouraging and supporting women advocates, stating that their active participation was essential for the progress of the legal fraternity. He recalled the pioneering contribution of Cornelia Sorabji and appreciated the association’s decision to induct women members into its Executive Committee.

Describing lawyers as vital custodians of access to justice and constitutional rights, the Chief Justice urged the legal fraternity to adapt to changing societal expectations and embrace technology to strengthen institutional functioning.

The programmes highlighted the shared commitment of the judiciary and the legal fraternity to upholding the rule of law, strengthening the justice delivery system and preserving the dignity and independence of the institution of justice.