India’s democratic journey has always been closely intertwined with the legal profession. From the struggle for independence to the making of the Constitution and the establishment of parliamentary democracy, lawyers played an extraordinary role in shaping the nation. The freedom movement was not merely a political struggle; it was also a struggle for civil liberties, equality, dignity and the rule of law. Mahatma Gandhi, Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru, Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, Dr. Rajendra Prasad and countless other lawyers stepped beyond their courtrooms to stand with the people and lead the country towards freedom.

The composition of the first Parliament of independent India reflected this remarkable tradition. Around 70 lawyers were members of the first Lok Sabha. Their presence was not accidental. They understood that political freedom would have little meaning unless it was translated into constitutional governance, social justice, economic opportunity and protection of individual rights. Their legal training enabled them to participate meaningfully in framing laws, scrutinising executive action and building the institutional architecture of the Republic.

It is worth asking why this tradition has weakened over the years. Lawyers continue to occupy a position of considerable respect in courts and public discourse, and many distinguished members of the profession continue to serve in Parliament and State legislatures. Yet, in relative terms, the participation of lawyers in electoral politics and public life has declined. This should concern everyone committed to the health of Indian democracy. When lawyers withdraw from public life, politics loses an important source of constitutional knowledge, institutional experience and principled accountability.

The courtroom and the political arena are different, but they are not disconnected. A lawyer appearing before a constitutional court may argue about fundamental rights, federalism, separation of powers or administrative accountability. A legislator must confront these very principles while making laws and scrutinising government. Lawyers understand how an apparently simple administrative decision can affect the liberty,........

© Greater Kashmir