In a significant loss to India’s legal fraternity, Fali S. Nariman, a stalwart in the field of law, breathed his last in the early hours of February 21, 2024. His demise marks the end of a remarkable career that spanned over 75 years, during which he made profound contributions to Indian jurisprudence.
Fali S. Nariman’s legal journey began over seven decades ago, and for the last fifty years, he stood as a senior advocate of the Supreme Court of India. Throughout his illustrious career, he left an indelible imprint on the legal landscape through his involvement in a myriad of landmark cases.
One of his most notable contributions came in the form of his representation in the Second Judges Case in 1981. Fali S. Nariman represented the Supreme Court Advocates-on-Record Association, challenging the interpretation of Article 124 regarding judicial appointments. His persuasive arguments led to the establishment of the Supreme Court Collegium, fundamentally shaping the process of judicial appointments in India.
In subsequent years, Fali S. Nariman continued to play a pivotal role in shaping legal discourse. His involvement in the Third Judges Case in 1998 further refined the procedure for judicial appointments, emphasizing the crucial role of consultation in the process.
Nariman’s legal prowess was not limited to matters of judicial appointments. He intervened in several cases of constitutional significance, including I.C. Golak Nath v. State of Punjab in 1967. In this case, he vehemently argued against the curtailment of fundamental rights by Parliament, securing a landmark ruling that safeguarded the constitutional rights of citizens.
The Bhopal gas tragedy of 1984 stands as a somber chapter in India’s history, and Nariman’s role in negotiating compensation for the victims was instrumental in bringing a semblance of justice to those affected by the disaster.
Throughout his career, Nariman fearlessly advocated for the rights of minorities, as evidenced by his involvement in the TMA Pai Foundation v. State of Karnataka case. His arguments underscored the delicate balance between minority rights and government regulations in the realm of education.
Nariman’s commitment to upholding constitutional principles extended beyond the courtroom. In the Cauvery Water Dispute, he represented Karnataka for over three decades, tirelessly striving to ensure a fair resolution to one of India’s most contentious inter-state disputes.
Fali S. Nariman’s legal legacy is not merely confined to the annals of Indian jurisprudence; it is etched into the fabric of the nation’s democratic ethos. His unwavering dedication to the cause of justice and his unparalleled contributions to the legal profession will continue to inspire generations of legal practitioners in India and beyond.
As the legal fraternity mourns the loss of one of its most eminent luminaries, Fali S. Nariman’s legacy serves as a beacon of hope, reminding us all of the enduring power of integrity, courage, and unwavering commitment to the pursuit of justice.
Aastha Kumari 
Dhairya Saraswat