In a significant address at the inauguration event of the Dr Rajendra Prasad National Law University, Chief Justice of India (CJI) DY Chandrachud underscored the imperative of extending legal education to remote rural areas. His remarks centered on ensuring equal opportunities for students from small towns, who often face barriers accessing quality legal education.

The CJI pointed out that while technology has made vast resources available, the contemporary legal education landscape disproportionately favors English-speaking urban students. He highlighted the findings of a survey on diversity in five law universities, revealing that students from diverse backgrounds struggle to gain admission due to language barriers.

Acknowledging the transformative potential of technology, CJI Chandrachud referenced the Bhashini software, which has translated over 36,000 judgments of the Supreme Court from 1950 to 2024. This initiative aims to bridge the language gap for citizens practicing law in district courts who may not be proficient in English.

Moreover, the CJI urged a reevaluation of traditional legal education practices, including moot courts, internships, and competitions, which have historically catered to elite families. He stressed the importance of designing these opportunities with the needs of diverse backgrounds in mind.

“Law colleges & universities should design it keeping in mind children coming from diverse backgrounds,” he said.

A key aspect of CJI’s address was the medium of instruction. He appealed to university administrations to consider Hindi as the medium of instruction, particularly in states like Uttar Pradesh, to facilitate the participation of the best students in legal education.

Highlighting the historical role of lawyers in nation-building, CJI Chandrachud emphasized their multifaceted contributions to society. From the Indian Independence movement to contemporary Indian politics, lawyers have played a pivotal role in shaping the legal landscape and advocating for justice. He underscored the responsibility of lawyers in representing marginalized and vulnerable communities, ensuring their voices are heard in the legal system.

The event saw participation from notable figures including Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, Supreme Court Justice Manoj Misra, Chief Justice of Allahabad High Court Justice Arun Bhansali, Uttar Pradesh Advocate General Ajay Kumar Mishra, and University Vice-Chancellor Usha Tandon, indicating the widespread support for inclusive legal education initiatives.

In conclusion, CJI Chandrachud's address resonates as a clarion call for a more inclusive legal education system that transcends geographical and linguistic barriers. By extending legal education to remote rural areas and embracing linguistic diversity, India can foster a new generation of lawyers equipped to serve diverse communities and uphold the principles of justice and equality.