Justice NV Ramana launches his book at Delhi High Court, urging Bar to defend democracy and truth.
BAR MUST SPEAK TRUTH IN CHALLENGING TIMES
Fact in News:
Launch of Narratives off the Bench, A Judge Speaks by Justice NV Ramana.The Bar must speak truth in challenging times said by Justice NV Ramana highlighting the judiciary’s democratic role .
Overview
In a significant address during the launch of his book Narratives off the Bench A Judge Speaks, former Chief Justice of the Supreme Court of India Justice NV Ramana stressed the importance of an empowered Bar that stands as the first line of defence against injustice . The event hosted at the DIAC Auditorium, Delhi High Court on 7th May was attended by Justice BR Gavai, Justice Surya Kant and Justice Vikram Nath . The book is a compilation of his speeches drawn from his experiences across various roles—as a student leader, journalist, lawyer and judge.
Key Aspects
Here are the notable themes and facts that emerged during the event :
- Justice NV Ramana stated that an active Bar must speak truth to power in testing times .
- He warned that unwarranted attacks on the judiciary undermine public trust and judicial legitimacy .
- Highlighted that judges are more independent when their institutional confidence is secure .
- The book shows decades of Justice Ramana’s personal and judicial journey .
- Justice BR Gavai who is next in line as Chief Justice pledged to follow Ramana’s vision .
- Justice Vikram Nath and Justice Surya Kant emphasized the requirement for judicial voices beyond judgments .
Legal Insights
Although not a case the address touched upon key constitutional principles :
- Article 50 – Mandates separation of judiciary from the executive which is essential for independence of judges.
- Article 19(1)(a) – Freedom of speech so that the Bar and Bench can express legal truths without fear .
- Article 21 – Right to justice as part of life and liberty depends on a fearless independent judiciary.
- Reaffirmed the Bar’s constitutional responsibility to act as a watchdog in democratic governance .
- Emphasized judicial accountability and transparency through public engagement and institutional clarity .
Conclusion
There was no judicial verdict as this was a ceremonial event . However the message from the Supreme Court of India’s senior judges including Justice NV Ramana, Justice BR Gavai, Justice Surya Kant and Justice Vikram Nath strongly reaffirmed the judiciary’s duty to uphold constitutional values and engage meaningfully with the public .
Source- Supreme Court of India
Read also- Article 21 of Indian Constitution
