Justice Sreedharan emphasizes importance of equal focus on fundamental duties alongside rights for nation’s progress

Jammu: In an inspiring celebration of democratic principles and constitutional values, the J&K Legal Services Authority in collaboration with the District Legal Services Authority (DLSA) Jammu and Government College for Women, Parade, on Thursday launched a weeklong awareness programme in commemoration of the Constitution Day, 2024.
Justice Atul Sreedharan, Senior most Judge, High Court of Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh and Executive Chairman, J&K Legal Services Authority, inaugurated the event.
On his arrival, Justice AtulSreedharan accompanied by Amit Kumar Gupta, Member Secretary, J&K Legal Services Authority was warmly welcomed by Dr.Ravender Kumar Tickoo, Principal, Government College for Women, Parade, Jammu, Smriti Sharma, Secretary, DLSA Jammu, Professor JasneetKour, HOD Political Science, Dr.GurpreetKour, NSS Programme Officer, Dr.SunitaRaina HOD Commerce, other staff members and students of the school.
The weeklong programme aims to deepen the understanding of constitutional values, fundamental rights and duties, as enshrined in the Constitution of India. It also seeks to create awareness about the pivotal role of the judiciary and legal institutions in safeguarding these values. Through interactive sessions, discussions, and cultural activities, the programme aspired to engage students and the larger community in meaningful discourse about the essence of justice, liberty and fraternity.
The Weeklong Awareness Programme aligns with this vision, aiming to inspire active and informed citizenship across all segments of society.
In his presidential address, Justice AtulSreedharan emphasized the core values of the Constitution and their relevance in everyday life. He highlighted the principle of equality and brotherhood enshrined in the Constitution, urging citizens to uphold these ideals without any discrimination. He remarked that a deep understanding of the Preamble alone provides the key to grasping the essence of the entire Constitution, as it encapsulates the ideals of justice, liberty, equality, and fraternity.
He also underlined the significance of respecting the law, even in seemingly small actions like adhering to traffic rules even at late night when no person in uniform is standing there, as a mark of constitutional values. Stressing the need to prioritize good governance over caste or religion in leadership choices, he appealed for selflessness and sacrifices for the greater benefit of society.
Referring to NaniPalkhivala’s book “We, The People”, Justice Sreedharan reflected on the irony of giving ourselves the Constitution but failing to live by its principles. He emphasized the importance of focusing equally on fundamental duties alongside rights and urged everyone to strive to become better human beings, free from corruption, contributing meaningfully to the nation’s progress.
Dr.Ravender Kumar Tickoo, Principal, GCW, Parade, Jammu, in his welcome address, highlighted the necessity of creating the right awareness among the younger generations.
Vartika Sharma, a student of 3rd Semester, in her presentation eloquently highlighted the historical significance of the Constitution and its role as a guiding force for the nation. Her presentation resonated with the audience, especially the youth, who were inspired to explore their roles in upholding democratic values.
The event concluded with a vote of thanks by Smriti Sharma, Secretary, District Legal Services Authority Jammu.
The event reflected the unwavering dedication of the Jammu & Kashmir Legal Services Authority to educate and empower individuals to contribute meaningfully to the nation’s progress while staying true to the Constitution’s ideals.