University of Jammu's Law Department honours judicial achievers; Justice Tashi Rabstan calls for integrity in bench

JAMMU: Former High Court judge Justice Tashi Rabstan on Tuesday urged newly appointed judicial officers to uphold integrity, patience and independence while discharging their duties, stating that courts are viewed by citizens as “temples of justice” and carry immense public trust.

Justice Rabstan was speaking at a felicitation function organised by the Department of Law University of Jammu at the Brig Rajinder Singh Auditorium, University of Jammu, where alumni were honoured for their achievements as Civil Judges, Prosecuting Officers, District Litigation Officers and Readers (2020 and 2023–2026 batches), along with the launch of an Alumni Lecture Series.

Addressing the gathering, Justice Rabstan said the judiciary must remain guided by honesty, impartiality and a clear understanding of facts. “Hard work, patience and an unbiased approach are essential. Judges must give adequate time to arguments and not rush through cases,” he said, emphasising integrity, dedication and a strong ethical foundation in the legal profession.

Sharing his personal experience, Rabstan recalled how he sought exposure in unfamiliar areas of law after being elevated to the High Court, underlining the importance of continuous learning and commitment to public service.

Highlighting changing trends, Rabstan noted that while technology, including artificial intelligence, is increasingly being used in legal processes, judges must rely on their own understanding and write judgments in simple language accessible to litigants and the public. Congratulating the achievers, Rabstan urged them to uphold the principles of justice and remain committed to public service.

He also called upon alumni to remain actively connected with the department and contribute to its growth through academic, professional and extracurricular engagement, and urged that such events be organised regularly.

Presiding over the event,  Vice-Chancellor, University of Jammu Prof. Umesh Rai, highlighted the institution’s commitment to academic excellence and its role in shaping competent legal professionals. He congratulated the achievers and acknowledged the contribution of faculty members and families in their success.

Prof. Rai also stressed the importance of institutional belonging and encouraged alumni to remain connected with the department, contributing to its academic and professional growth.

On the occasion, alumni who had qualified as Civil Judges/Munsifs, Prosecuting Officers, District Litigation Officers and Readers were felicitated by the Chief Guest and other dignitaries. The students of the  Law Department also presented a musical performance.

Earlier, Prof. Manju Jamwal, Head and Dean, Faculty of Law, welcomed the dignitaries and expressed pride in the achievements of the alumni, reiterating the Department’s continued focus on nurturing talent and encouraging a culture of excellence.

The formal vote of thanks was delivered by Dr Vijay Saigal. Among others present on the occasion included Prof. Arvind Jasrotia. Prof. Satinder Kumar, Prof. Sanjay Gupta, Prof  Savita Nayyar, and other faculty members from the Department of Law. The event witnessed participation of distinguished dignitaries, faculty members, students and families of the achievers. On this occasion the alumni also shared their experiences.

Members of the organising team, including Sunny Singh Rajput, Lakshita Singh Chib, Nitisha Verma, Mohit Singh, Anuraj Thakur, Nitiya, Khushi, Jhanvi, Smriti Rajput, Urvashi Thakur and Ashwani, were acknowledged for their role in the successful conduct of the event.