Renowned legal expert and senior advocate Fali S. Nariman has died at the age of 95
An awardee of the Padma Vibhushan, Nariman, often hailed as the “Bhishma Pitamah” (father figure) of the Indian judiciary, played a leading role in groundbreaking verdicts.
Eminent jurist and senior advocate Fali S. Nariman passed away on Wednesday morning at the age of 95. Nariman had been battling several health issues, including cardiac ailments.
Nariman, a recipient of the Padma Vibhushan and commonly known as the “Bhishma Pitamah” (patriarch) of the Indian judiciary, played a pivotal role in pioneering judgments that propelled the Supreme Court to new heights.
Utilizing his outstanding oratory abilities and adept advocacy, Nariman participated in numerous Constitution bench cases that significantly contributed to the apex court’s interpretation of constitutional provisions and reshaping of the legal framework.
Among the notable cases in which Nariman was involved as a lawyer are the Golak Nath case (establishing judicial review even over constitutional amendments), the TMA Pai case (asserting the rights of minorities to establish institutions of their preference), and the SP Gupta and NJAC case (where he advocated for judicial independence in judicial appointments).
Former Rajya Sabha member, Nariman, was additionally known for his prolific writing. He penned several books, including titles such as “Before the Memory Fades,” “The State of the Nation,” “India’s Legal System: Can it be Saved?” and “God Save the Hon’ble Supreme Court.”
Born on January 10, 1929, in Rangoon, then part of British India, Nariman was admitted as an advocate of the Bombay High Court in November 1950 and was conferred the status of senior advocate in 1961.
Nariman dedicated over 70 years to the practice of law, beginning in the Bombay High Court and later extending to the Supreme Court. He assumed the role of additional solicitor-general of India in May 1972 but resigned the day following the declaration of the Emergency on June 26, 1975. His son, Justice Rohinton F Nariman, served as a former judge of the Supreme Court.
In a post on X, senior advocate Abhishek Manu Singhvi hailed Nariman as a living legend whose legacy will endure in the hearts and minds of those in the legal and public spheres. Singhvi emphasized Nariman’s steadfast adherence to his principles above all his varied accomplishments, noting his candidness in calling things as they were—a trait shared by his distinguished son…,” as stated in the post.
Solicitor-general Tushar Mehta expressed that the nation, not just the legal community, mourns the loss of a towering intellect and wise figure. “The nation has lost a symbol of righteousness. A pioneer, exemplar, and a figure of legendary stature during his lifetime, has departed, enriching jurisprudence with his significant contributions. Merely appearing against him, I always gained new insights,” Mehta conveyed in his message.
He further noted that intellectual titans like Nariman do not perish. “Their contributions render them immortal. Another Fali Nariman cannot and will not emerge,” he emphasized.
