Lawyers Must Uphold Justice in All Circumstances: Salman Khurshid
New Delhi, Sept 16 – At a national seminar titled “Rule of Law”, held at Jawahar Bhawan in the capital, prominent legal minds, former judges, and civil society representatives came together to stress the urgent need to protect India’s constitutional values. The event was organized by Indian Muslims for Civil Rights (IMCR).
Chaired by Salman Khurshid, former Union Minister and senior Supreme Court lawyer, the seminar called on legal professionals to act as guardians of justice—especially in times when democratic institutions face pressure.
Delivering the keynote address, Muhammad Adib, former MP and Chairman of IMCR, emphasized that the organization is not limited to Muslim issues, but exists to defend the rights of all communities and oppose injustice in all forms. He underscored that strengthening the rule of law is essential for maintaining democracy, adding, “When the rule of law is weak, the foundations of democracy are shaken.”
Lawyers as Protectors of the Constitution
Salman Khurshid, in his address, called on lawyers across the country to rise above personal interests and ensure the law is implemented with full transparency and fairness. “When institutions are under pressure, lawyers must act as the torchbearers of constitutional values,” he said.
Justice Iqbal Ansari on Umar Khalid Case
Justice Iqbal Ansari, a former judge, referred to the prolonged imprisonment of activist Umar Khalid, calling it not just a Muslim issue, but a concern for every Indian citizen. “This is a fight to protect Indian secularism,” he said. “Governments will come and go, but the country must remain rooted in justice and equality.”
Need for Legal Awareness and Public Participation
Fazeel Ahmed Ayubi, advocate, presented a detailed report on IMCR’s legal interventions and the importance of active legal advocacy. Muhammad Khalid called for greater public awareness around constitutional rights—not only for today, but for future generations.
Maulana Fazlur Rahim Mujaddidi, Secretary General of the All India Muslim Personal Law Board, highlighted the deeper implications of justice, saying: “If a weak person gets justice, it shows the strength of the judiciary. If not, it raises questions about the system.” He emphasized the importance of well-equipped legal teams to help the vulnerable.
The event brought together lawyers, scholars, civil society leaders, and human rights defenders from across the country. Speakers unanimously stressed that secularism, constitutional protection, and judicial fairness are essential pillars of democracy that must be defended—especially in the current climate.
