New Delhi, February 21, 2024 — Renowned constitutional jurist and senior Supreme Court advocate Fali S Nariman breathed his last early this morning, leaving behind a legacy of legal brilliance and advocacy for justice.
Nariman, who was 95, began his legal journey in November 1950 as an advocate at the Bombay High Court. His illustrious career spanned over 70 years, during which he earned the distinction of senior advocate in 1961. Relocating to New Delhi in 1972, he continued his practice in the Supreme Court of India, concurrently serving as Additional Solicitor General of India.
A stalwart of the legal fraternity, Nariman also presided over the Bar Association of India from 1991 to 2010. His contributions to the field were recognized with prestigious accolades, including the Padma Bhushan in 1991 and the Padma Vibhushan in 2007.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his condolences, hailing Nariman as one of the finest legal minds dedicated to ensuring justice for all. Nariman’s impact extended beyond the courtroom, as he played pivotal roles in landmark cases such as the NJAC verdict and the SC AoR Association case.
In addition to his legal prowess, Nariman held key positions in international arbitration and advocacy organizations, further solidifying his influence on the global stage. He remained a vocal critic on contemporary legal issues, including the abrogation of Article 370 and the archaic sedition law.
Reflecting on his vast experience, Nariman underscored the complexities of constitutional governance in his book, ‘You Must Know Your Constitution’, cautioning against hasty reforms without due consideration of historical context.
His insights on the sedition law resonated with his principled stand against oppressive colonial legacies, emphasizing the importance of dissent and civic engagement in a democratic society.
Fali S Nariman leaves behind a profound legacy that will continue to inspire generations of legal practitioners and advocates for years to come.
