BCI has requested SCBA and SCAORA to rethink their decision not to hold a farewell for Justice Bela Trivedi. The move is seen as crucial to upholding judicial traditions and respect.
New Delhi: Today, On 16 May, The Bar Council of India (BCI) has expressed serious concern over the decision of the Supreme Court Bar Association (SCBA) and the Supreme Court Advocates-on-Record Association (SCAORA) to not organise a traditional farewell ceremony for Hon’ble Justice Bela M. Trivedi, who is retiring from the Supreme Court on May 16, 2025.
In a letter addressed to the Presidents and Secretaries of both SCBA and SCAORA, BCI Chairman Manan Kumar Mishra called the decision a break from a long-standing tradition and warned that it may send the wrong message to the judiciary and legal fraternity.
the BCI Chairman wrote,
“By reconsidering the decision to deny a farewell to Justice Bela Trivedi, the SCBA and SCAORA would reinforce their status as esteemed custodians of tradition and integrity, demonstrating to law students, lawyers, and citizens alike the important responsibilities they shoulder in shaping the legal framework,”
Traditionally, farewell ceremonies are held by both associations to honour the retiring judges of the Supreme Court.
However, no announcement has been made so far about such a ceremony for Justice Trivedi, raising eyebrows within the legal community.
During the ceremonial bench held earlier today, Chief Justice of India (CJI) BR Gavai and Justice AG Masih also voiced concern over the apparent refusal of SCBA and SCAORA to conduct a farewell.
Their remarks added weight to the ongoing debate over whether protocol and tradition are being ignored in this instance.
In his letter,
Manan Kumar Mishra praised Justice Trivedi’s unwavering dedication to the values of the judiciary, highlighting her landmark contributions and judicial discipline.
he said,
“Her consistent emphasis on fairness, accountability, and ethical conduct has been a guiding light. Despite facing challenging circumstances, she has remained unyielding in her dedication to the principles of justice, refusing to yield to external pressures and always acting in accordance with her inner conscience,”
Justice Bela M. Trivedi’s tenure in the Supreme Court has been marked by strong adherence to legal ethics and notable judgments.
Among her key rulings is the DK Gandhi v. M. Mathias judgment (Civil Appeal No. 2648 of 2009), delivered on May 14, 2024, which showcased her exceptional legal acumen and her commitment to safeguarding the dignity of the legal profession.
Calling for a reversal of the SCBA and SCAORA’s decision, the BCI Chairman wrote,
“Such a farewell is not merely a matter of protocol but a reaffirmation of our collective commitment to the traditions, principles, and decorum that define the judicial institution. Let us not forget that institutions are sustained by traditions, and traditions are upheld by the respect we accord to those who serve them with distinction and honor.”
The legal fraternity is now watching closely to see whether SCBA and SCAORA will reconsider their stance and uphold the values that define the institution by formally honouring Justice Bela M. Trivedi on her retirement.
Read Letter:
Click Here to Read Our Reports on CJI Sanjeev Khanna
