Justice GR Swaminathan said Sanatana Dharma must remain central to one’s heart while serving in public roles, stressing that character goes beyond professional skill. He added that with four and a half years of service left he aims to excel.
Justice GR Swaminathan of the Madras High Court emphasized that Sanatana Dharma should be central in one’s heart while performing public duties.
He remarked that a person’s role and character in public life are not solely defined by their professional expertise.
He said,
“I hopefully have four and a half years of service. In these four and a half years, I have to show excellence. I have to keep Sanatana Dharma in my heart,”
Speaking at an event organized by the Dara Foundation in Chennai, Justice Swaminathan reflected on his remaining time as a judge, stating that the occasion reinforced his commitment to striving for excellence rooted in personal values.
During the ceremony, he, along with former Chief Election Commissioner N. Gopalaswami, presented awards to individuals recognized for their cultural and spiritual contributions.
He expressed that the event provided him with both inspiration and a sense of responsibility moving forward.
Justice Swaminathan pointed out that the awards from the Dara Foundation celebrated excellence across various fields, highlighting that the awardees shared common traits of humility and service rather than merely professional accomplishments.
Describing the event as a “wonderful” gathering, he acknowledged the individuals who have shown distinction in their respective domains.
Affirming that service and character are the key traits of those honored, he said,
“All the people who have won the award are doing that,”
He noted that the recognitions embody the values endorsed by the Foundation, focusing on more than just professional success.
Referring to comments made by former Chief Election Commissioner Gopal Swamy, Justice Swaminathan remarked that while subject knowledge and expertise are essential, they are insufficient for developing a complete character.
He said,
“Subject and knowledge is needed. That alone does not bring a person’s personality fully. You have to serve others. You have to develop your character,”
He also highlighted the humility he witnessed among the awardees, citing Ilaiyaraaja’s grandson as an example. Despite a notable lineage, respect for others and a lack of pride were clearly evident.
Justice Swaminathan concluded that such occasions remind us that public office and recognition demand humility, service, and a robust ethical foundation extending beyond mere professional competence.
Earlier, on December 2025, Justice G R Swaminathan issued an order instructing the Hindu Religious and Charitable Endowments (HR&CE) department to restore the lighting of the Deepam at Deepathoon, along with other traditional sites.
These orders, which called for CISF protection, sparked controversy and were subsequently followed by reports of an impeachment notice against him being filed in Parliament by more than 100 MPs.
Recently, a Division Bench of the Madras High Court reserved its decision on the appeal concerning Justice Swaminathan’s order.
Additionally, there is an ongoing contempt case regarding the State’s non-compliance with Justice Swaminathan’s directives.
Additionally, 120 Members of Parliament (MPs) from the DMK and its INDIA bloc allies have submitted an impeachment motion against Madras High Court Judge Justice GR Swaminathan.
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