Today, On 16th May, CJI BR Gavai said, “I must deprecate openly,” criticising the SCBA for refusing a farewell to Justice Bela Trivedi, and praised Kapil Sibal and Rachana Srivastava for attending despite the association’s resolution.
New Delhi: Chief Justice of India (CJI) BR Gavai and Justice AG Masih of the Supreme Court expressed concern on Friday regarding the apparent decision by lawyers’ organizations at the Supreme Court to forgo an official farewell for retiring judge Justice Bela Trivedi.
Typically, the Supreme Court Bar Association (SCBA) and the Supreme Court Advocates-on-Record Association (SCAORA) organize farewell ceremonies to honor retiring Supreme Court judges.
However, no such event has been announced for Justice Trivedi’s retirement.
This situation did not escape the attention of the judges on the ceremonial bench convened to mark Justice Trivedi’s final working day.
CJI Gavai addressed the issue, acknowledging SCBA President Kapil Sibal and Vice-President Rachana Srivastava for their presence that morning.
CJI Gavai remarked,
“I am grateful to Mr. Sibal and Rachana Srivastava that both of them are here. But the stand taken by the Association (SCBA), I must deprecate openly, because I believe in being plain and straight. On such occasions, such a stand ought not to have been taken by the Association and, therefore, I am openly appreciating Mr. Sibal and Srivastava that despite the resolution of the bodies, they are here. The presence of the full house here fully indicates, the verdict is given, that she is a very, very good judge. There are different types of judges, but that should not be a factor for doing what ought to have done at 4:30 PM today,”
He further noted that Justice Trivedi is recognized for her firmness, fearlessness, hard work, integrity, and spirituality.
Justice Masih also expressed his view that Justice Trivedi should have received a farewell from the bar associations.
He praised her for the warmth she has demonstrated during her tenure as a judge.
He remarked,
“Strangely enough, as has already been expressed by the Chief, I am sorry, I shouldn’t be saying it, but traditions need to be followed and they are to be respected. I am sure good traditions should continue always. I wish sister (Justice Trivedi) all success in life…I am sure she will be a mentor and guide to many,”
Also Read: JUSTICE BELA M. TRIVEDI
Justice Trivedi’s elevation to the Gujarat High Court came on February 17, 2011. In June 2011, she was transferred to the Jaipur Bench of the Rajasthan High Court, where she was confirmed as a permanent judge in February 2013.
In February 2016, she was repatriated to the Gujarat High Court, further strengthening her association with the judiciary in her home state. Justice Trivedi is said to retire on 9 June 2025 after a tenure of 3.75 years.
During her time in the Supreme Court, Justice Trivedi was part of several important benches and gave judgments on key issues. She was known for her sharp legal understanding and firm opinions in court.