Justice Rajendra Prakash Soni, a respected judge of the Rajasthan High Court, passed away at 60 due to a heart attack on October 11, 2024. Appointed in January 2023, he previously served in key judicial roles, earning admiration for his fairness and compassion. His untimely death is a significant loss to the legal community.
Rajasthan: On Friday, October 11, 2024, the legal fraternity in Rajasthan and across India was struck with deep grief as news broke of the untimely demise of Justice Rajendra Prakash Soni. The Rajasthan High Court judge, who was just 60 years old, passed away following a severe heart attack in Jodhpur. Justice Soni, who had only been admitted to the hospital the previous night after experiencing chest pain and anxiety, could not be revived despite medical intervention.
Early Life and Judicial Career
Justice Rajendra Prakash Soni was appointed as a judge of the Rajasthan High Court on January 16, 2023. His elevation to the esteemed position came after years of dedicated service in various judicial capacities across the state of Rajasthan. The Supreme Court Collegium had recommended his appointment to the High Court bench in November 2022, recognizing his extensive experience and commitment to the legal profession.
Before his appointment to the High Court, Justice Soni had an illustrious career serving as the Principal District and Sessions Judge in several key districts of Rajasthan, including Dungarpur, Sirohi, Jalore, Udaipur, and Kota. In these roles, he was known for his firm yet fair approach to justice, ensuring that the law served the people with integrity and balance.
Contributions Beyond the Courtroom
In addition to his roles as a district judge, Justice Soni held several important positions that contributed to the functioning and betterment of the judiciary. He served as the Presiding Officer of the Motor Accident Claims Tribunal at Udaipur and Rajsamand, a role that saw him deal with numerous accident-related claims, ensuring that victims and their families received timely justice and compensation. His sensitivity toward the aggrieved and his meticulous legal acumen earned him widespread admiration.
Justice Soni also rendered services as the Registrar (Administration) of the Rajasthan High Court, a role that placed him in a key administrative position to streamline judicial processes and improve efficiency within the High Court. His work in this capacity reflected his deep commitment to improving the judicial system’s accessibility and responsiveness to the needs of the public.
A Sudden Loss to the Judiciary
The sudden death of Justice Soni has come as a shock to both the legal community and the citizens of Rajasthan. His tenure at the High Court may have been brief, but his impact was significant. He was known for his unwavering dedication to upholding the principles of justice, and his reputation for fairness and wisdom had only begun to leave a mark at the higher judiciary.
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Justice Soni’s passing at the age of 60 is particularly poignant, as it cuts short what many believe would have been an even more distinguished career on the bench. His colleagues in the judiciary and those who appeared before him have expressed their deep sorrow at his untimely demise, remembering him not only as a sharp legal mind but also as a compassionate and approachable individual.
A Lasting Legacy
Though his time on the Rajasthan High Court bench was short, the legacy of Justice Rajendra Prakash Soni will endure. His dedication to the judicial process, his compassionate approach to justice, and his unwavering commitment to upholding the law have left an indelible mark on the Rajasthan judiciary.
As the state and legal fraternity mourn the loss of one of its most respected judges, Justice Soni’s contributions will continue to inspire future generations of lawyers and judges. His life serves as a testament to the impact that a fair, principled, and compassionate judge can have on the legal system and society at large.
In the wake of his sudden demise, the legal community is left with a deep sense of loss, but also with the lasting imprint of Justice Soni’s exemplary service to the law. His legacy, built over decades of judicial work, will remain a guiding light for those who seek justice in Rajasthan and beyond.
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