On his last working day, Justice Abhay S Oka received a warm and emotional farewell from the Supreme Court bar, marking the end of an inspiring judicial career defined by firmness, integrity, and a deep commitment to constitutional values.
Despite losing his mother just a day earlier, Justice Oka arrived at work and delivered ten judgments before stepping down. The courtroom was packed with lawyers who thanked him for his unwavering stand against injustice.
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A ceremonial bench, led by Chief Justice of India (CJI) BR Gavai, honoured the outgoing judge. During the farewell, Attorney General R Venkatramani highlighted how Justice Oka fiercely protected liberty, freedom of speech, and constitutional rights. Solicitor General Tushar Mehta praised his dedication to duty, even recalling how he and ASG Raju were often "on the receiving end" of Oka's strong stance but still respected him deeply.
"You were a judge who took a stand. Our love and respect for you were never affected. We respect you for who you are," said SG Mehta.
Senior Advocate Kapil Sibal compared him to legendary judges like Justice Khanna and Justice Patanjali Shastri, saying:
"You protected liberty like no one else could. When some judges leave, they create a vacuum that can never be filled."
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Dr. AM Singhvi praised the transparency and ease in Justice Oka’s courtroom, while ASG SV Raju said he never felt unfairly treated even when his arguments were rejected.
"The cases were decided for justice, not against me," Raju stated.
Senior Advocate Gopal Sankaranarayanan described him as "as sturdy as an oak tree", and Menaka Guruswamy thanked him for his decisions that made Delhi’s environment more livable.
Several prominent advocates, including Meenakshi Arora, Shadan Farasat, Mukul Rohatgi, and CU Singh, expressed their respect and gratitude.
CJI BR Gavai called him an "outstanding judge" and "extraordinary colleague", lauding his tireless work ethic:
"Even when his father passed away, he took only one day off. He didn’t even accept official accommodation after becoming a judge," Gavai noted.
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The CJI also shared that both he and Justice Oka have decided not to take any post-retirement positions, emphasizing their commitment to integrity beyond the bench.
"He has been a professor of law and ethics within the courtroom. His energy, discipline, and moral clarity have left a lasting mark."
Justice Oka, in his response, brought smiles with his humorous remark:
"Today is the first and last day of my judicial career where I have not stopped lawyers from speaking!"
He continued on a serious note, affirming his belief in the role of the Supreme Court as a guardian of liberties:
"This court can uphold constitutional liberties, and that has been my humble endeavour."
Reflecting on his journey, he said:
"A Judge must be firm and strict, and should never aim to be popular. A great judge once told me – 'You are not becoming a judge to become popular.' I have always followed that advice. I may have offended some, but only in my honest attempt to uphold our Constitution."
Justice Abhay S Oka began his legal career in 1983 at the Bombay High Court. He was appointed a judge there in 2003, later becoming the Chief Justice of the Karnataka High Court in 2019. In August 2021, he was elevated to the Supreme Court of India.
As he exits the bench, Justice Oka leaves behind a powerful legacy of judicial ethics, constitutional fidelity, and a fearless commitment to justice.
