1720 Colonial Case Highlighted By CJI Chandrachud Cites Importance Of "Rule Of Law"

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In 1720, he was convicted based on what was later proven to be fabricated evidence, accused of conspiring with a naval pirate. This trial, noted for its lack of fairness, occurred during British rule in India, as highlighted by Chief Justice Chandrachud at a recent event in New Delhi.

1720 Colonial Case Highlighted by CJI Chandrachud Cites Importance of "Rule of Law" — 1720 Colonial Case Highlighted by CJI Chandrachud Cites Importance of “Rule of Law”

NEW DELHI: On Tuesday (2nd July): Rama Komathi, a prominent figure in pre-Independence Bombay, was known for his wealth, influence, and philanthropy. However, in 1720, he was convicted based on what was later proven to be fabricated evidence, accused of conspiring with a naval pirate. This trial, noted for its lack of fairness, occurred during British rule in India, as highlighted by Chief Justice Chandrachud at a recent event in New Delhi.

Rama Komathi, also known as Rama Kamath or Kamati, was reputed to have close ties with the East India Company and was the sole Indian invited to the inauguration of the Cathedral of St. Thomas in Bombay. Later in life, he faced charges of treason and conspiracy, allegedly in communication with Kanhoji Angre, a perceived threat to Bombay’s security.

The case against Komathi relied heavily on hearsay and a purported confession obtained under duress from his servant. Despite the evidence being later proven false, he was sentenced to life imprisonment, his properties seized and auctioned. He died in prison eight years later.

The tribunal, presided over by Governor Charles Boone, overlooked the legal principle that no one should judge their own case. The trial reflected a departure from modern notions of the rule of law, fairness, and equality under the law.

“In his later years, he faced charges of treason and conspiracy before a tribunal of the East India Company. Allegations included secret correspondence with Kanhoji Angre and a plot to seize the Governor of Bombay, delivering him to Angre, deemed a threat to Bombay’s security. The primary evidence against Kamati rested on hearsay from a girl alleging his involvement with Angre, which is not admissible in court. Additionally, a statement supposedly coerced from his servant was used to sentence him to life imprisonment. His warehouse in the Fort area was reportedly demolished, and his properties were seized and auctioned. He died in prison eight years later. Chief Justice Chandrachud later confirmed that the intercepted letters used as evidence were fabricated, revealing the falsehood of the case against Kamati.”

“The first Earl of Chatham, William Pitt, who served as Prime Minister of Great Britain from 1766 to 1768, famously emphasized that ‘the end of law is the beginning of tyranny,’ highlighting the crucial role of the rule of law. Kamati’s unfortunate circumstance was being tried during the nascent stages of modern legal systems, becoming a symbolic victim of a miscarriage of justice.

Mehta noted that the case provides important judicial lessons, underscoring the necessity of upholding due process, impartiality, and the use of reliable and admissible evidence in trials to safeguard justice. ‘This historical case serves as a stark reminder of the need for robust legal protections to uphold individual rights and preserve the integrity of the judicial system,’ he stated.”

Reflecting on this historical case, solicitor Dhaval Mehta of DM Legal Associates emphasized the importance of due process, impartiality, and reliable evidence in ensuring justice. He noted that Komathi’s ordeal underscores the need for robust legal safeguards to protect individual rights and maintain the integrity of the judicial system.