Supreme Court Is Protector Of Multi-Cultural Ethos & Diversity Of India And Embodiment Of Its Diverse Civilization: Justice Krishna Murari

Judge of the Supreme Court Justice Krishna Murari speaking at the farewell function organised by the Supreme Court Bar Association (SCBA) on the occasion of his retirement on Friday said that the Supreme Court is not only the protector of the multi cultural ethos and diversity of India but is in itself an embodiment of its multi-cultural and diverse civilization. “This Court consists of people from across different regions, languages, religion, caste all working towards the cause of justice. This plurality represents the true essence of our great country.” Justice Murari said in his farewell speech.

Justice Murari also added that the Supreme Court is not just the guardian and custodian of constitutional principles but also of the constitutional ideals and values our forefathers had fought for. “If our constitution is the arch on the edifice of which our nation rests then the Supreme Court is the key stone holding this constitutional arch in place.” Justice Murari said. 

On the occasion of his retirement, Justice Murari requested the senior members of the bar to take care of their juniors and to pay them well and support them in their career. “I have always encouraged junior lawyers to argue. I always told them if the result is in your favour, you get the credit. If it is to be dismissed, I will call your senior" he said.

Justice Murari thanked Chief Justice DY Chandrachud for giving him the opportunity to learn to adapt to technology with the Supreme Court becoming paperless.

“Learning is a life long process. When I was sitting in the constitution bench, the CJI suddenly announced that this bench is going to a green bench. I whispered in his ears, I don't know anything about computer operation. the CJI said I'll make you learn. The first day was very embarrassing, I was not able to operate it. Brother Narasimha came to my rescue. He tilted his iPad so I could see. That day I could do nothing except read from his iPad. That evening I asked my law clerks to guide me until I was confident I could do it. Thereafter I could carry on with the constitution benches."

CJI Chandrachud in his speech recalled his early days with Justice Murari at the Allahabad High Court and praised him for his calm demeanour. “My association with him traces back to when I took over as Allahabad CJ in 2013. He was always very calm, the perfect demeanor for a judge. He shared with me yesterday that he's never lost his temporary at a member of the bar throughout his judicial career.” the CJI remarked.

He also greatly appreciated Justice Murari for being quick to adapt to technology. “Even though he was not initially conversant with using an iPad and a laptop, he learnt very quickly. It was primarily because of the co-operation of Justice Murari and my other colleagues, that we were able to go paperless.” CJI Chandrachud said at the farewell. 

Live updates of the event can be accessed here.

Watch the live streaming of the event here.