Mannen urges law students to promote social justice

DIMAPUR — Expounding on the significant role of the legal profession in ensuring justice, fairness and equality in society, advisor of Law and Justice, Land Revenue, TN Mannen, called upon the law students to be mindful of their duty to serve the public interest, uphold the rule of law and promote social justice.

Speaking at the introductory session of the 25th-anniversary celebration of the Nagaland Law Students’ Federation at the Capital Convention Centre in Kohima on Tuesday on the theme “Forging equitable justice,” Mannen emphasised the pivotal role of the legal profession especially in addressing Naga political issues, Nagaland-Assam border issues and customary laws. Highlighting the need for adapting customary laws to modern society, he urged the students to refine, codify, and standardise those laws.

Mannen lauded the Federation’s tireless efforts in promoting legal education and contributing to the development of the legal profession. He also encouraged students to seize opportunities provided by the Law Federation and college to expand their knowledge, gain practical experience, and build a strong professional network, stated a DIPR report.

Imliben Lemtur, the first lady president of Nagaland Law Students’ Federation, stated that the celebration marked not only the passage of time but a journey of relentless dedication to intellectual persuasion and an unwavering commitment to pursuing justice. She urged the students to remember their duty in shaping a future where justice is not just a notion but a lived reality.

Lemtur thanked the esteemed guests from the legal field for their presence and encouraged law students to strive for excellence. She further expressed hope that the principles of equity and justice would guide them in shaping the legal landscape in Nagaland.

Alumni member, Hukato, paid homage to the pioneers and well-wishers of the federation during the programme.

Later, speaking at the inaugural programme, Speaker of Nagaland Legislative Assembly, Sharingain Longkumer, stressed the importance of continuous learning in the legal profession and also shared insights on the separation of powers and challenges of the legal profession.

He urged law students to utilise the available resources including a well-equipped library at the NLA Secretariat and to extend legal awareness to rural communities by translating legal documents into local dialects for better accessibility.

Also speaking on the occasion, Akito Zhimomi, president of Nagaland Bar Association (NBA), emphasised the crucial need for individuals, especially law students and practitioners, to equip themselves with the necessary tools for ‘forging equitable justice,’ which was the jubilee theme.

Zhimomi encouraged law students to seek further knowledge beyond academic knowledge gained in classrooms for improvement in legal profession. While distinguishing between academic learning and the real-world challenges of the legal profession, he stated that success in the legal field requires a mindset devoted to the profession, a willingness to work hard and a commitment to acquiring knowledge continuously.

He called for courage and integrity in speaking out against societal wrongs, stressing that the pursuit of equitable justice begins with individuals.

T Tohuka Achumi, NLSF president, emphasised the pivotal role played by the federation based on its motto “Justice for all.”

Tiakaba Jamir, the first president of NLSF, reflected on the decision to form the federation with a vision of providing a platform and addressing the welfare of law students in the state. Jamir emphasised that the jubilee celebration served as an opportunity to create legal awareness among the public.

Jamir expressed hope that NLSF would continue to uphold its commitment to deliver justice.

Zashekhono Tetso, the first women coordinator of NLSF, shared insights into the establishment of City Law College, Dimapur, under the federation’s guidance. She expressed satisfaction in seeing over 100 alumni from the three law colleges in the state registered with the bar association and flourishing as successful lawyers.