Eminent constitutional jurist and veteran senior advocate of the Supreme Court, Fali S. Nariman, passed away in New Delhi on Wednesday at the age of 95. Nariman, a towering figure in India’s legal landscape, breathed his last, leaving behind a legacy of legal brilliance and advocacy.
Nariman’s legal journey began when he was enrolled as an advocate of the Bombay High Court in November 1950. Over the course of more than 70 years, he carved a formidable reputation, initially practicing law in the High Court of Bombay before moving to New Delhi in 1972 to practice in the Supreme Court of India.
His legal acumen earned him the prestigious designation of senior advocate in 1961. During his illustrious career, Nariman made significant contributions to Indian jurisprudence and was appointed Additional Solicitor General of India in May 1972.
His expertise was recognised with several awards, including the Padma Bhushan in January 1991 and the Padma Vibhushan in 2007. Nariman’s influence extended beyond India’s borders, as he held esteemed positions such as president of the Bar Association of India from 1991 to 2010 and vice-chairman of the International Court of Arbitration of the ICC (International Chamber of Commerce) Paris from 1989 to 2005.
He also served as the president of the International Council for Commercial Arbitration and chaired the Executive Committee of the International Commission of Jurists, Geneva, from 1995 to 1997.
Fali S. Nariman’s demise marks the end of an era in India’s legal fraternity, leaving behind a legacy of excellence and integrity that will be remembered for generations to come.
