Chief Justice of India (CJI) D.Y. Chandrachud expressed displeasure over the Supreme Court Bar Association (SCBA) and the Supreme Court Advocates-on-Record Association (SCAORA) not holding a farewell function for retiring Justice Bela M. Trivedi.
New Delhi: The Chief Justice of India (CJI) D.Y. Chandrachud has openly expressed his disappointment at the Supreme Court Bar Association (SCBA) and the Supreme Court Advocates-on-Record Association (SCAORA) for not organizing a farewell function for retiring Justice Bela M. Trivedi. This matter came to light when the customary farewell party, usually held for retiring Supreme Court judges, was not held for Justice Trivedi.
SCBA and SCAORA's Decision, Criticized by the CJI
The absence of a farewell function for Justice Trivedi has impacted the atmosphere within the Supreme Court. The SCBA and SCAORA adopted a different approach this time, prompting a b reaction from CJI D.Y. Chandrachud. He stated that this was an occasion where tradition should have been honored, but it was not.
While appreciating the presence of SCBA President Kapil Sibal and Vice President Rachna Srivastava, CJI Chandrachud criticized the association's decision as a whole, stating, "I openly condemn this attitude. In such a situation, the association should not have shown any kind of bias."
Judges are Individuals, Respect Should be Equal - CJI Chandrachud
The CJI further stated that judges have different personalities and styles, but this does not mean that anyone's respect should be diminished or that they should not receive due honor. He said, "Judges are different, but this should not stop their work, nor should it diminish their respect. The farewell function, scheduled for 4:30 PM, should have taken place."
This clearly indicates that CJI D.Y. Chandrachud values the spirit of traditional institutional respect and wants all judges to be treated with equal honor.
Praise for Justice Bela M. Trivedi's Work Style
The CJI also praised Justice Trivedi's personality and contribution as a judge. He stated that Justice Trivedi is known for her firmness, fearlessness, hard work, and honesty. He also mentioned her spirituality, which is clearly reflected in her judgments. Justice Trivedi has delivered judgments in several important cases in the Supreme Court and has always prioritized fairness with justice. Her work ethic and hard work have established her as one of the respected members of the judiciary.
Traditionally, the SCBA and SCAORA organize a function upon the retirement of Supreme Court judges to honor their services. The non-observance of this tradition for Justice Trivedi has raised several questions. Some sources suggest this decision might be due to disagreement with her judicial decisions or work style, although there is no official confirmation. This matter has created an uncomfortable atmosphere between the Supreme Court and the legal community.
