Dealing sensitive issues requires years of experience: Justice MK Gupta at RPNLU talk series Beyond the Judgment

The Dr Rajendra Prasad National Law University, Prayagraj (RPNLU) recently hosted the second episode of its 'Beyond the Judgements' talk series, which featured Allahabad High Court judge, Justice Manoj Kumar Gupta.

In the second episode, Justice Gupta began by sharing his most memorable first day, not as a judge but as a lawyer, when he argued his first case in the court. That moment ignited his lifelong commitment to the law and the pursuit of justice. Early on in his academic journey, he had once contemplated a career in engineering before ultimately choosing the legal path.

Reflecting on his formative years and his entry into the legal profession, he emphasised that the most important lessons he learned were the values of dedication to one’s work and the need for patience and focus in the courtroom. These lessons were inculcated into his personality, instilling values that helped him as a judge to sustain a meaningful career in law, he said.

Providing insights into the judiciary's role in dealing with sensitive issues, Justice Gupta stated that making such decisions entails years of experience, a solid understanding of the law, and a strong commitment to the public interest, free from the influence of media narratives. He emphasised that 'being impartial' is crucial, stating that justice must not only be done but also be perceived as being done, which Justice Gupta considered to be one’s 'greatest strength.'

Addressing legal aid challenges, he asserted that true access to justice depends on the quality, not just the availability, of legal representation.

Justice Gupta also emphasised that a judge must not view any case as too complex or dismiss it as too easy, because for the individuals involved, it may be the only case that truly matters.

Justice Gupta further spoke about his visits to prisons in Lucknow, Prayagraj and Meerut, an experience he said profoundly altered his perspectives.

“It deepened my empathy and reshaped my thinking towards undertrial prisoners”, he said, highlighting the moral imperative of judicial compassion.

Justice Gupta highlighted the need for openness while cautioning that sensitive areas like artificial intelligence and data privacy must be handled with legislative care to avoid misuse.

The discussion delved into Justice Gupta's personal interests and passions outside the courtroom as well. Cooking and gardening are his stress busters, he said, offering a welcome mental break from the intensity of judicial responsibilities.

In his concluding remarks, Justice Gupta shared his deep affection for RPNLU, Prayagraj, calling it 'close to my heart', having witnessed its development from its earliest stages.

He offered valuable guidance to the students, stating,

“Legal education is not just about securing employment, it’s about becoming informed citizens."

Justice Gupta elaborated on the many career options available in law and encouraged students interested in litigation to follow it with dedication.

Justice Gupta added that the success of women and first-generation lawyers should inspire others to pursue their goals with confidence.

Justice M K Gupta’s candid reflections and principled views made this edition of ‘Beyond the Judgements’ a memorable experience, one that left the students with renewed inspiration and a deeper appreciation for the responsibilities that come with upholding justice.

The Beyond the Judgments initiative was launched on April 7 with Justice Arun Bhansali, Chief Justice of the Allahabad High Court featuring in its first episode.

The initiative was introduced under the leadership of Vice-Chancellor of RPNLU, Senior Prof (Dr) Usha Tandon, with the aim to broaden student horizons.

It is designed to offer students a deeper insight into legal matters and the lives, experiences, and values of judicial leaders, to expand the perspectives of aspiring lawyers regarding the practical wisdom of the judiciary.

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