KDLSA in collaboration with the Kohima Bar Association and the Prosecution department, observed the 76th Constitution Day at the DPDB Hall, Kohima on November 26.
Kohima, November 26 (MExN): The Kohima District Legal Services Authority (KDLSA), in collaboration with the Kohima Bar Association and the Prosecution department, observed the 76th Constitution Day on November 26.
The event at the DPDB Hall was graced by Justice Songkhupchung Serto, Chairperson of the Nagaland State Human Rights Commission, and a retired Judge of the Gauhati High Court, as the chief guest.
In his address, Justice Serto described the Constitution as a “living, evolving entity” that embodies the dreams of the nation's forefounders. He noted that India has witnessed remarkable progress in the last 76 years, guided by the constitution that has adopted through 106 amendments. The latest being 106th amendment Act 2023 which provides for one-third reservation of women in the Lok Sabha and the State Assemblies.
He further stressed that laws must be continuously refined to meet the needs of a developing society, while preserving the basic structure of the Constitution.
Reflecting on challenges in Nagaland, he pointed out that cases often rely on memorandums instead of statutory laws, leading to inadequate legal protection for citizens.
He further shared his experiences from reports and findings across Nagaland, which highlighted in the deficiency in health, education and food security in the state.
He recalled BR Ambedkar’s reminder that the strength of the constitution lies in the integrity of those who uphold it.
He urged advocates at the forefront in defending society and spreading awareness and ensuring that the citizens understand the rights, responsibilities and accountability.
He reaffirmed that the Constitution is supreme and it duty of every legal professionals to safeguard justice for all.
In her keynote address, Mezivolu T Therieh, NJS & Chairperson of Kohima DLSA, said legal professionals are the “custodians of justice” and stressed that their actions must reflect constitutional morality to fulfil the rights of the weak. “We all share a sacred responsibility in giving justice to those who approaches us, she said and urged that our actions must reflect constitutional moralities and that the rule of law and the right of the weak must be fulfilled and that is the purpose of all the legal practitioners.”
Additional Public Prosecutor Abraham, in his speech, termed the Constitution a “daily tool as well as a weapon,” emphasizing that the success of constitutional governance depends on the collective effort of the justice department. He further urged everyone present to recommit to the principles and to honour the constitution.
Lhusisato Iralu spoke on the importance of the rule of law as a “practical necessity” and called for collective respect for the Constitution to build an “accountable, civilised Nagaland.” He also urged the people to “reflect and reaffirm our commitment in building an accountable civilised Nagaland guided by the Constitution.”
Earlier, the programme commenced with welcome address by Nagali Shohe, Advocate &Panel Lawyer Kohima DLSA followed by a collective recitation of the Preamble.
Vote of thanks was proposed by Sunjib Rana, Retainer Lawyer, KDLSA.
