On May 7, 2025, the Delhi High Court's DIAC Auditorium hosted the launch of "Narratives off the Bench, A Judge Speaks," a compilation of speeches by former Chief Justice of India (CJI) NV Ramana. In his address, Justice Ramana emphasized the indispensable role of an active legal fraternity in safeguarding justice, asserting that the bar serves as both the first line of defense against injustice and the final bastion that must confront power with truth during challenging times. He highlighted the legal community's significant contribution to shaping Indian jurisprudence through unwavering passion and active participation.
Justice Ramana cautioned against unwarranted attacks on the judiciary, stating that such assaults undermine public trust, which is fundamental to the judiciary's survival. He observed that while the judiciary has faced numerous challenges historically, it has consistently emerged stronger. He further noted that when the judiciary's position is secure, judges are less inclined to seek support from political or executive branches, thereby preserving judicial independence.
The book, published by Eastern Book Company, encapsulates Justice Ramana's experiences and reflections from his diverse roles as a student leader, trade union activist, journalist, lawyer, and judge. He described the compilation as a crystallization of years of observation, reflection, and inner dialogue, aiming to provide insights into his journey and the evolution of his thoughts on justice and the legal system.
The event featured Supreme Court Justice BR Gavai as the chief guest, with Justices Surya Kant and Vikram Nath serving as guests of honor. Justice Gavai, anticipated to be the next CJI, expressed his commitment to upholding the responsibilities of the Chief Justice beyond the Supreme Court, extending to the entire judicial system across the nation. He acknowledged Justice Ramana's guidance and pledged to adhere to his counsel upon assuming the role.
Justice Vikram Nath highlighted that Justice Ramana's speeches demonstrate that judges can communicate not only through judgments but also through personal reflections and public discourse. He emphasized that positions of privilege come with an obligation to serve and uplift society, and that the speeches serve as both an institutional archive and a map of conscience.
Justice Surya Kant underscored the necessity for the judiciary to engage meaningfully with the public beyond courtroom confines. He asserted that Justice Ramana's collection of speeches champions the principle of justice engaging thoughtfully with society, thereby fostering transparency and public trust.
The launch of "Narratives off the Bench, A Judge Speaks" not only commemorated Justice Ramana's contributions but also sparked a broader conversation about the role of the judiciary and the legal community in upholding democratic values and confronting challenges with integrity and courage.
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