The Chief Justice of India (CJI) DY Chandrachud was accompanied by Justice Syed Abdul Nazeer and P. S. Narasimha in the ceremonial bench of his last working day, commended Justice Nazeer for his dedication towards his work and how he never allowed stress to get to him.
Justice S A Nazeer, who is retiring from the office, was born on January 5, 1958. He was registered as an advocate on February 18, 1983. Justice Nazeer was elevated as a Judge of the Supreme Court on February 17, 2017. Before this, he practiced in Karnataka and was appointed as an Additional Judge of the Karnataka High Court on May 12,2003 and as a Permanent Judge on September 24, 2004.
Commending Justice Nazeer, CJI Chandrachu said, “Justice Nazeer doesn’t belong to the class which would be neutral between right and wrong but he find the right and stood for it and ensure justice is done. Unfortunately, I could not appear before him. But, I sat with him on the Ayodhya matter and saw what a great statesman he is.”
“I have a sense of sadness that we will continue to be friends but I will not share the bench with him again now,” CJI added.
Justice P S Narasimha, who was also part of the occasion, remembered his days as a Senior Counsel when he used to argue before Justice Nazeer.
“I very fondly recollect my appearances before Justice Nazeer. It was a pleasure to appear before him. I had a great association with him.” remarked Justice Narasimha.
The CJI said that there is a tradition on the cricket field that the skipper of the cricket team always allows the best performer on the field for that session to lead the way back to the pavilion. “In that tradition, I would request Justice Nazeer to lead us back to the pavilion (chambers).”
Justice Nazeer said he spent nearly six years in the apex court as a Judge and was feeling emotional on his last working day.
“I am feeling a bit emotional. Thank you very much. It has almost been six years, one month short. I have enjoyed every bit here. You have all supported me, encouraged me, and taught me,” Justice Nazeer remarked on his colleague.
Supreme Court Bar Association President Vikas Singh also shared his experience of working with Justice Nazeer said he has been extremely gracious while dealing with the bar and he always maintained a pleasant atmosphere in the courtroom.
Solicitor General Tushar Mehta said Justice Nazeer always had a smiling face and his imprint will always remain.
Among them who were present in the ceremonial bench were Senior Advocates Mukul Rohatgi, Sanjay Hegde and V. Mohana.
