Need 'civilian army' to protect nation's interests: SC judge Surya Kant

Supreme Court Justice Surya Kant emphasized the importance of a "civilian army" of experts across various fields to safeguard national interests. Speaking at an international moot court competition, he highlighted the value of such events in developing essential skills like research, oration, and critical thinking for students pursuing law and other public service roles.

Justice Surya Kant (File photo) NEW DELHI: Supreme Court judge Surya Kant on Sunday said a nation growing "economically, politically, in the rule of law and in good governance " requires not only the "military in dress" but also a "civilian army" of experts to diligently and intelligently look after its interests both within and outside Addressing the valedictory session of the international moot court competition at Rashtriya Raksha University, Justice Kant said law field does not demand perfection for perseverance, curiosity and commitment to the ideals of fairness and equity. "A nation growing economically, politically, democratically, in rule of law, in good governance, requires not only the military in dress but a lot of military elements in civilian dress also," Justice Surya Kant said. "Whether you are a law graduate, an expert in criminal law or international law , whether you are a professor or a scientist or an engineer, or holding any other responsible position, you become part of that civilian army which very carefully, intelligently, very diligently looks after the interests of the nation both within and outside," he was quoted as saying by news agency PTI.

Justice Surya Kant said students in the moot court get the unique opportunity to gain first-hand experience in complex areas of law in a competitive setting as they deal with hypothetical cases concerning matters relating to international law, global security, cyber terrorism and national security . "The element of confidence in speaking, the oration, the expression is extremely important when you go for civil services or any other public assignment. These are the platforms where you gain this confidence and learn.

As an activity, mooting instils a sense of competition and facilitates holistic development, intellectual engagement and the exercise of ideas among peers," Justice Kant asserted. He said that it was imperative for students to train themselves in the research given the rise in economic and financial crimes in countries such as India. Stay updated with the latest news on Times of India .

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