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Another emotional and honorable chapter has been added to the golden history of the Indian Judiciary and its rich traditions. Chief Justice of India (CJI) Justice Surya Kant took out time from his busy schedule and constitutional responsibilities to meet former Chief Justice of the country Justice M.N. On the auspicious occasion of Venkatachaliah’s 97th birthday, he reached his personal residence and congratulated him and extended his best wishes. This unprecedented respect, reverence and courtesy shown by the CJI, holding the highest position in the judiciary, towards his senior jurist predecessor is being highly appreciated by the legal circles and general public across the country. This intimate meeting has proved that seniority, values and moral heritage still hold paramount importance in the Indian judicial system.
This step of Chief Justice of India Justice Surya Kant is not just a formal meeting, but it is a symbol of the great culture of the Supreme Court of the country where knowledge and experience are given top respect. Justice M.N. Venkatachaliah is one of the few stalwarts of the Indian judiciary who, during his tenure, took the justice system to new heights through landmark judgments and ethical principles. By visiting his house, CJI Surya Kant not only honored a senior citizen but also gave a message to the future generations of the judiciary that our institutions never forget the contributions of their forefathers. During this meeting, many experiences related to law, institutional dignity and judicial reforms were shared between the two stalwarts.
Justice MN Venkatachaliah’s name is held with great respect in the history of Indian legal system. Serving as the 25th Chief Justice of the country in the 1990s, he played an important role in promoting judicial accountability, protection of human rights and public interest litigation. Even after retiring from the post of Chief Justice, he remained the Chairman of the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) and also headed the National Commission formed to review the functioning of the Constitution. Even at the age of 97, his dynamic personality and dedication to law remains a source of inspiration for lawyers, judges and law students across the country. Taking blessings from CJI Surya Kant became a medium to express his gratitude towards this great judicial journey.
As soon as the pictures and information about Chief Justice Justice Surya Kant visiting former CJI Venkatachaliah’s house to wish him well became public, there was a wave of happiness in the legal community of the country. Many senior advocates of the Supreme Court Bar Association, former High Court judges and legal analysts have praised this humane and courteous behavior of the CJI. People say that in today’s rapidly changing era where formalities are becoming dominant, the Chief Justice of the country personally visiting the doorstep of an elderly former judge presents a great example of institutional solidarity and mutual respect. This meeting shows that the top leadership of the Indian Judiciary is always ready to seek the guidance of its elders and follow in their footsteps.
This new example set by CJI Surya Kant will further strengthen the working culture of the judiciary in the times to come. Taking advantage of the experiences of former judges strengthens the institution amid efforts to make the justice system in the country quick, transparent and accessible. Such personal and professional interactions not only boost the morale of judicial institutions but also strengthen the faith in the judiciary in the minds of common citizens. This birthday wish for 97-year-old Justice Venkatachaliah is truly a celebration of the uninterrupted tradition of the Indian judiciary, which rests on the strong foundation of truth, integrity and mutual respect.