Justice CT Ravikumar, retiring on January 15, highlighted the crucial role of Indian citizens in protecting the Constitution at his farewell by the Supreme Court Bar Association. Emphasizing constructive criticism of judicial rulings, he reflected on his fulfilling tenure since 2008, reaffirming his commitment to judicial integrity even post-retirement and urging patience and preparedness among lawyers.
New Delhi: As Supreme Court judge Justice CT Ravikumar prepares for retirement on January 15, he emphasized the pivotal role of the people of India in safeguarding the Constitution. Speaking at his farewell function organized by the Supreme Court Bar Association (SCBA) on Friday (Jan 3rd), he reaffirmed the judiciary’s commitment to protecting citizens’ rights under the Constitution.
“Often times we used to say, judiciary is the guardian of the Constitution. Then the question is, who should be the guardian of the judiciary? It should be we the people of India as it is we who gave this Constitution to us. I am sure that the judiciary will be protected by the people of India and the judiciary will, in turn, safeguard and protect them with the aid of Constitution,”
Justice Ravikumar said.
Highlighting the importance of public discourse on judicial rulings, Justice Ravikumar said:
“While on criticism, I should quote ‘I disapprove of what you say but I will defend to the death your right to say it.’ If any criticism is made imbibing this spirit, certainly it can only be constructive criticism which will definitely help in development of law.”
Justice Ravikumar expressed satisfaction with his tenure, which began in 2008 as a judge of the Kerala High Court and culminated in his elevation to the Supreme Court in 2021.
“Time has come to bid adieu. I feel great satisfaction but it is for you to say whether it was satisfactory or not,”
he remarked.
He also recalled his oath as a judge, pledging to uphold the judiciary’s integrity even after retirement:
“At the time when I sworn in, I said I will not be doing anything to shatter the confidence of the people in this judiciary. I will repeat it after demitting the office also.”
Addressing members of the legal fraternity, Justice Ravikumar emphasized patience and preparedness.
“When we say judge should be patient, what about the lawyer? Even they should be patient. Do not think judge is to oppose you. We are there to listen and questions are to pick what is there.”
On the issue of adjournments, he added:
“Adjournments should be utilized to read the same thing twice, thrice and be better prepared.”
Justice Ravikumar leaves behind a legacy of dedication to the judiciary and the Constitution, with a promise to continue contributing as a law-abiding citizen.
“Ultimately, it is the institution which is the guardian of law. I will continue to respect this institution and the law and I will continue as a law building citizen,”
he said.
FOLLOW US ON YOUTUBE FOR MORE LEGAL UPDATES