Renowned jurist and senior advocate of the Supreme Court, Fali Nariman, passed away today at the age of 95 at his residence in Delhi.
Nariman, who began his legal career at the Bombay High Court before later relocating to Delhi, was a prominent figure in the legal fraternity. He was bestowed with the Padma Bhushan in 1991 and the Padma Vibhushan in 2007 for his significant contributions to the field of law.
Having served as the Solicitor General of India from 1972 to 1975, Nariman made headlines when he resigned from his post in protest against the Emergency declared by then Prime Minister Indira Gandhi. His unwavering commitment to principles earned him respect and admiration throughout his tenure, during which he also served as President of the Bar Association from 1991 to 2010.
Throughout his illustrious career, Nariman argued numerous landmark cases, notably the National Judicial Appointments Commission case, which was later struck down by the Supreme Court. His dedication to ensuring justice for all was acknowledged by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who expressed condolences and praised Nariman's lifelong commitment to making justice accessible to every citizen.
Senior advocate and Congress leader Abhishek Manu Singhvi also mourned Nariman's passing, describing it as "the end of an era." Singhvi highlighted Nariman's principled stance and his ability to fearlessly speak truth to power, traits he passed on to his son.
Solicitor General Tushar Mehta lamented the loss of Nariman, describing him as a "towering figure of intellect and wisdom" and emphasizing the significant intellectual void his passing has left within the legal community.
Fali Sam Nariman, a towering figure in Indian law, dedicated over seven decades to the pursuit of justice. Born on January 10, 1929, he graced the Supreme Court as a senior advocate from 1971 onwards, leaving an indelible mark on the legal landscape of the nation.
Appointment as Additional Solicitor General of India in May 1972 marked the beginning of his impactful journey.
Nariman's unwavering commitment to principles was evident when he resigned from the post of Additional Solicitor General to protest against the Emergency declared by then Prime Minister Indira Gandhi.
Enrolled as an advocate of the Bombay High Court in November 1950, he honed his legal acumen and established an impeccable reputation.
Relocating to New Delhi in 1972, he brought his expertise to the forefront, practicing in the hallowed halls of the Supreme Court.
Recognized with prestigious accolades such as the Padma Bhushan in January 1991 and the Padma Vibhushan in 2007, Nariman's contributions to the legal fraternity were widely celebrated.
Nariman's involvement in landmark cases, including the National Judicial Appointments Commission (NJAC), SC AoR Association case, and TMA Pai case, reshaped the Indian judiciary.
Beyond national borders, he held esteemed positions such as president of the Bar Association of India from 1991 to 2010 and vice-chairman of the International Court of Arbitration of the ICC Paris from 1989 to 2005.
His international influence extended further as he served as the president of the International Council for Commercial Arbitration and chaired the Executive Committee of the International Commission of Jurists, Geneva, from 1995 to 1997.