4 April 2024 10:58 AM GMT
The Supreme Court on Thursday (April 4) in an event of profound significance, convened a Full Court Reference in the memory of late jurist and senior advocate Mr Fali Sam Nariman who passed away on February 21 . The Chief Justice, Dr DY Chandrachud delivered a heartfelt homage to Mr Nariman, spotlighting the unparalleled virtues he embodied throughout his illustrious career.
Considered the 'Bhishmapitama' of the legal fraternity, Mr Nariman's tallness would be impossible to forget. The CJI expressed how Mr Nariman's greatness illuminated the capabilities of the legal profession.
The CJI shared reflections on Mr. Nariman's remarkable persona and his contributions, underscoring his unwavering moral principles, invincible bravery, and absolute dedication to his values. These attributes, as pointed out by the CJI, not only contribute significantly to the realm of law but also offered comfort and guidance to the entire nation.
Taking inspiration from Homer's legendary epic "Illiad," the Chief Justice made comparisons to the cyclical nature of existence and the perpetual impact of individuals like Mr. Nariman, whose influence transcends their earthly lives.
Mr. Nariman was born on January 10, 1929, in the country known today as Myanmar but was known as Burma at the time. His formative years were characterized by considerable turmoil, including his family's forced relocation to India due to the Japanese incursion during World War II. In spite of these adversities, he demonstrated an exceptional level of persistence, a quality that would come to characterize both his professional path and personal journey.
A Journey of Academic and Professional Excellence
Throughout Mr. Nariman's scholarly path, he achieved with several honours, reaching a pinnacle with his unparalleled achievement in the Bar Council's Advocate Exam, where he secured the top position. His upbringing in India was marked by overcoming formidable obstacles, as his schooling at both Bishop Cotton School in Shimla and St. Xavier's College in Mumbai established the cornerstone for his later triumphs. At the Government Law College, Mr Nariman bagged the Kinlock Forbes Gold Medal in Roman Law & Jurisprudence, thus showing early signs of the jurist in the making.
Guided by the expertise of legal giants like Mr. Nanipalkiwala and the former Chief Justice of India, YV Chandrachrud, Mr. Nariman's prowess in the law has blossomed.
A Beacon Of Brotherhood In The Legal Profession
Underlining Mr Nariman's commitment to integrity and excellence in the legal field, the CJI recounted from the Jurist's renowned book 'Before Memory Fades', where Mr Nariman stressed the significance of establishing oneself through integrity and ability within the legal community.
The CJI expressed the significant influence that Mr. Nariman has on the legal community at the Supreme Court, emphasizing how his honesty, expertise, and friendliness were winning over the hearts and commitment of the bar's members.
The rare quality of balancing greatness while staying down to earth was embedded in Mr Nariman. The CJI lauded his constant endeavour to seek growth, especially at an age where people let their achievements overtake their conscience.
Nariman As The Voice Of Courage & Hope For Generations To Come
Recalling his recent opinion piece in The Indian Express, Mr Nariman wrote that a Futuristic Court is not just technology-enabled but also that which is independent, CJI highlighted how Mr Nariman's constant dialogue on the issues of judicial independence, and gaining of public confidence aided in the vocalisation of the gap between the people and access to justice.
Being a mentor to many amongst the bar and the bench, the CJI expressed how Mr Nariman dedicated his life to the purpose of rule of law and principles of fairness. Recalling an incident which the Jurist narrated to the CJI during the emergency, the CJI lauded how Mr Nariman stood unfazed and legally passionate in the face of political perils
The CJI also mentioned how even in the last phase of his life he actively contributed towards the endeavours of the Supreme Court and Supreme Court lawyers, be it by writing an essay on the 75th Anniversary of the Supreme Court or guiding senior advocates in the Constitution matters, or opinionating on the recent judgements of the Supreme Court, Mr Nariman's imprint carries within the experiences of many individuals.