CJI Surya Kant recalled how a sharp remark in 1984 changed his life’s direction from a district court lawyer in Hisar to the highest judicial office in India. He also warned young lawyers that without technology and skill upgrades, they risk being left behind in a fast-changing legal world.
Chief Justice of India Surya Kant recently shared a deeply personal story from his early days in law, along with a strong message for young lawyers, while addressing programs organised by the Hisar Bar Association and the Hansi Bar Association.
Speaking in very candid terms, the CJI recalled how one simple but sharp comment changed the entire course of his life and eventually led him to the highest judicial office in the country.
The CJI said that when he began his legal career in 1984 as a young lawyer in the district court of Hisar, he never imagined that he would one day become the Chief Justice of India.
He told the audience that on April 21, 1984, during the initial phase of his practice, a district judge had asked a senior lawyer a question that stayed with him forever:
“Why are you wasting it here?”
The CJI said that this one sentence, spoken in the corridors of the court, acted like a turning point in his life. It pushed him to think bigger, work harder, and move forward with confidence.
Sharing this memory, the CJI said that success in the legal profession does not come only from talent, but also from timely guidance, hard work, and sometimes a strong push at the right moment. He described his journey as proof that even a lawyer starting from a small district court can rise to the top with dedication and discipline.
While reflecting on his own journey, the CJI also issued a clear warning to young lawyers. He said that the legal profession is changing very fast, and those who do not change with time will be left behind. According to him, understanding technology is no longer a choice for lawyers but a basic requirement for delivering justice today.
Referring to the changing nature of crimes, the CJI said that law books alone are no longer sufficient. He explained that cases today involve cybercrime, digital fraud, online arrests and technology-based offences.
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In such matters, lawyers must be technically sound to understand digital evidence, analyse technological issues and effectively argue new types of cases. He warned that without updating their skills, lawyers would struggle to remain relevant in modern courts.
As reported, the CJI said that India is also witnessing a rise in global commercial disputes and corporate litigation due to increased foreign investment and a growing economy. He explained that lawyers now need a strong understanding of international law, contract law and technology, as commercial cases are becoming more complex and cross-border in nature.
Speaking about the justice delivery system, the CJI said that the Indian judiciary has set an example for the world in adopting technology. He recalled how during the Covid-19 pandemic, courts continued to function through virtual hearings and digital platforms, ensuring that justice did not stop.
He also pointed out that court judgments are now being translated into multiple Indian languages so that common citizens can easily understand them. According to him, these changes require lawyers to adopt new thinking and modern preparation methods.
Addressing young advocates directly, the CJI said that the future of legal practice may not remain limited within India.
He told them,
“Tomorrow you may have to go beyond the geographical boundaries of this country to file cases and argue,”
highlighting the need for global legal exposure and skills.
The CJI also spoke emotionally about his bond with the Hisar Bar Association. He said that his relationship with the Bar is not just professional but also personal and emotional. He stated that the love, affection and guidance he received from the Hisar Bar were among the biggest achievements of his life.
Referring to the rich history of the Hisar Bar, he said that many lawyers from this region have gone on to serve the judiciary with distinction across the country.
At the Hansi Bar Association event, the CJI spoke about the increasing workload in courts and said that efforts are being made to strengthen judicial infrastructure and facilities.
He appreciated the development of Hansi as a district and requested the authorities to work towards setting up an e-library in the Hansi judicial complex to help lawyers access legal resources easily.
The message from the Chief Justice of India was clear and firm. In an era of changing crime patterns, a rapidly growing economy and fast-evolving technology, lawyers who fail to update themselves will fall behind.
According to the CJI, continuous learning, technical knowledge and adaptability are the keys for young lawyers who want to succeed in the legal profession of the future.
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