Dr. Abhishek M. Singhvi, a prominent Senior Advocate at the Supreme Court of India and a Member of Parliament in the Rajya Sabha, delivered an inspiring address at the 15th Convocation Ceremony of O.P. Jindal Global University (JGU). His speech called upon the graduating students to become innovators who uphold constitutional values and lead with integrity in a rapidly transforming global landscape.
The ceremony was a momentous occasion for JGU, marking the graduation of 5,604 students from various undergraduate, postgraduate, and doctoral programs. Dr. Singhvi congratulated the graduates, emphasizing that their accomplishments are part of a larger narrative encompassing the institution, the legal profession, and the broader pursuit of justice.
“Each of you has embarked on a unique journey filled with aspirations, sacrifices, perseverance, and achievements. Today’s accomplishments are not just personal milestones but contribute to a larger story—the pursuit of justice by humanity,” he remarked.
Dr. Singhvi highlighted the dual nature of convocations as both an end and a new beginning, acknowledging the crucial roles played by the families, mentors, and teachers in the graduates’ journeys. He stressed that professional success should be rooted in wisdom, ethics, and public service, noting, “Knowledge alone is insufficient. It must be guided by wisdom and values.”
Shri Naveen Jindal, the Founding Chancellor of JGU, expressed hope that the graduates would further the ideals of justice, constitutional values, and public service. “We are honored to have Dr. Singhvi, one of India’s most distinguished constitutional lawyers and thought leaders, address our graduates today,” he stated.
Dr. Singhvi commended JGU for fostering an academic environment that prioritizes research excellence and intellectual freedom. He praised the institution for its high research output and its commitment to diversity of thought and freedom of expression. “JGU stands out for its commitment to research and its vibrant intellectual culture,” he observed.
He also praised the university for creating platforms for meaningful dialogue among judges, diplomats, ministers, scholars, and activists. “Universities must preserve a culture of debate. True intellectual confidence comes from engaging with differing opinions,” he emphasized.
Prof. (Dr.) C. Raj Kumar, the Founding Vice Chancellor of JGU, welcomed Dr. Singhvi, acknowledging his significant contributions to law and public discourse. “JGU was founded to bring world-class education to India, and we are delighted to have Dr. Singhvi here to confer degrees upon our law graduates,” he added.
Dr. Singhvi reflected on the characteristics of great universities, noting that their true measure lies in the ideas they nurture and the confidence they instill in students. He paid tribute to the late Shri O.P. Jindal, an institution-builder who understood the transformative power of education. “The most enduring legacy of a philanthropist is the dreams they enable,” he remarked.
He also acknowledged JGU’s efforts in preserving India’s constitutional and judicial heritage through its museums and centers of excellence. Additionally, he highlighted Shri Naveen Jindal’s constitutional battle to uphold the right of every Indian citizen to fly the National Flag with dignity.
Emphasizing the role of universities in democracy, Dr. Singhvi stated, “Universities should be spaces where ideas compete, not identities. Democracy thrives on strong arguments, not echo chambers.” He encouraged the graduates to embrace change and innovation, noting the profound transformations reshaping the legal profession.
In conclusion, Dr. Singhvi urged the graduates to uphold justice with courage, integrity, and compassion, reminding them that the future of the legal profession belongs to those who combine intellectual excellence with ethical leadership and a commitment to public service.
