"Law Is A Matter Of The Heart…”: Remembering Fali S Nariman (image-X/WithKotaNeelima)
Regarded as one of the most respected and well-versed members of the legal fraternity, Fali S Nariman’s death has left a void as the nation grieves the invaluable loss on Wednesday.
Born out of humble beginnings, Nariman’s journey into law was initially, not by choice. Recounting his college days, he revealed in a 2010 Bar and Bench interview that law became a path when financial constraints led him away from his father’s wish for him to pursue the Indian Civil Service exam. Despite this, Nariman’s commitment to his legal education flourished, eventually leading him to Mumbai’s Government Law College, where he honed his craft and actively participated in college governance.
Reflecting on the challenges of his early years in practice, Nariman acknowledged the difficulty of the journey but also highlighted the support and guidance he received from the judiciary. He underscored the importance of humility and continuous learning for aspiring lawyers, urging them to embrace the vast knowledge and experience available in the field.
Nariman’s contributions went beyond his legal practice, as he voiced concerns and offered insights on issues plaguing the legal profession. From advocating for compassionate approaches to representing personal values in legal issues, Nariman’s wisdom resonated deeply within the legal community.
Recounting his experience of helping the Foreign Minister of Bangladesh draft the Bangladesh Constitution, he expounded that writing a constitution was easy, but putting the Constitution into action is a “grave challenge.” Nariman also represented the Gujarat government on the rehabilitation program for Project Narmada. However, after attacks on Christian men and women and instances of the burning of Bibles persisted, Nariman resigned as a sign of protest. He highlighted the importance of compassion, “one of the greatest qualities”, in the legal field, particularly amongst lawyers and judges.
Throughout his illustrious career, Nariman credited his mentors and emphasized the significance of constitutional law, highlighting its complexities. Despite his age, Nariman maintained an active role in the legal sphere, displaying his dedication to the field.
Fali Sam Nariman’s passing marks the end of an era in the legal fraternity, leaving behind a legacy of integrity and wisdom. As tributes continue to pour in for the late jurist, his legacy as a legal luminary and a compassionate advocate for justice will live on, inspiring generations of lawyers to come.
(With inputs from Bar and Bench)
