“Be Global, Be Tech-Savvy”: CJI Surya Kant Urges Young Lawyers to Adapt to Changing Nature of Crime

Stressing the growing role of technology in law and justice delivery, the CJI said that access to e-libraries, digital resources and modern tools was no longer optional but essential for the legal profession.

Justice Kant was speaking at a felicitation ceremony organised by the Hisar Bar Association at the local judicial complex. Addressing judicial officers and advocates, he said that technological empowerment of lawyers would not only enhance individual efficiency but also strengthen the justice delivery system as a whole.

Referring to his personal journey, Justice Kant recalled his early education in Petwar village of Hisar district and his formative years as a young lawyer practising at the Hisar Bar in the 1980s. “Homecoming is for a person who leaves home, but I never left home,” the CJI remarked, reflecting on his return to Hisar after assuming office as the Chief Justice of India.

He described his association with the Hisar Bar Association as not merely professional but deeply emotional and familial. “The amount of love, affection, care and mentorship I received from the Hisar Bar has been among the biggest achievements of my life,” he said, adding that although his stint in Hisar was brief, his relationship with the Bar remained unending.

Justice Kant also highlighted the illustrious history of the Hisar Bar, noting that its members had rendered invaluable service to the nation while serving across various parts of the country. He observed that the Indian judiciary had made unparalleled use of modern technology, particularly during the Covid-19 pandemic, when virtual courts and digital platforms ensured uninterrupted access to justice and set a global benchmark.

Drawing attention to the changing crime landscape, the CJI said that cybercrimes, digital arrest scams, online frauds and technology-driven offences were witnessing a sharp rise. To effectively argue such cases, he said, lawyers must develop a strong understanding of technology and the ability to analyse digital evidence.

“Advocates are the most crucial link in ensuring timely justice to the common citizen,” Justice Kant said, emphasising that reducing delays in justice through resource development must remain a top priority. He also pointed to the growth of India’s economy and the corresponding rise in foreign investment, which has led to an increase in commercial disputes and corporate litigation.

In this context, the CJI urged advocates to adapt their strategies and align themselves with modern judicial requirements. “Tomorrow, you may be required to file or argue a case beyond the territorial and geographical boundaries of this country,” he said, exhorting young lawyers to prepare themselves for the role of global legal professionals.

“Wherever I go, I impress upon young members of the Bar that they must be tech-savvy and globally aware. You need to rebuild yourself and acquire the stature of a global lawyer,” Justice Kant added.

Earlier, Hisar Bar Association president Sandeep Boora welcomed the CJI and other dignitaries. Senior Bar member P.K. Sandhir described the occasion as historic, recalling his association with Justice Kant in 1984 and noting that the moment would be remembered as a golden chapter in the Bar’s history.

Justice Kant also addressed a similar felicitation ceremony organised by the Hansi Bar Association, where he spoke about the increasing use of technology in the judiciary, translation of judgments into regional languages, and strengthening of judicial infrastructure. He urged authorities to provide e-library facilities in the Hansi judicial complex for the benefit of advocates.

Justice Kant’s wife Savita Vashisht and Punjab and Haryana High Court Chief Justice Sheel Nagu were among those present. The CJI is scheduled to visit Petwar village and attend other programmes in the region on Saturday (January 10).