CJI's Last Working Day: Supreme Court's Landmark Judgments

Introduction

On November 26, 2022, Chief Justice of India (CJI) NV Ramana retired from the Supreme Court of India, marking the end of his illustrious career in the judiciary. During his tenure as CJI, the Supreme Court delivered several landmark judgments that have had a profound impact on the Indian legal landscape and the lives of ordinary citizens.

Groundbreaking Rulings

One of the most significant judgments delivered during CJI Ramana's tenure was the recognition of the transgender community as a third gender. In National Legal Services Authority v. Union of India, the Court ruled that transgender persons have the right to self-identify their gender and to access education, employment, and other social welfare benefits on an equal basis with other citizens.

Another landmark judgment was the decriminalization of consensual same-sex relationships in Navtej Singh Johar v. Union of India. The Court held that Section 377 of the Indian Penal Code, which criminalized homosexuality, violated the fundamental rights of privacy and equality. This judgment has been hailed as a major victory for LGBTQ+ rights in India.

The Supreme Court also played a crucial role in upholding the rights of individuals during the COVID-19 pandemic. In In Re: Contagion of COVID-19 Virus in Prisons, the Court directed states to take immediate steps to decongest prisons and ensure the health and safety of inmates. The Court also held that the right to legal representation cannot be denied to undertrial prisoners who are unable to afford a lawyer.

In addition to these landmark judgments, the Supreme Court also delivered significant rulings on a wide range of other issues, including the rights of migrant workers, the protection of the environment, and the freedom of the press. These judgments have helped to shape the contours of Indian society and have strengthened the rule of law in the country.

Legacy and Impact

CJI Ramana's tenure as Chief Justice will be remembered for its transformative judgments and his unwavering commitment to justice. His legacy will continue to inspire future generations of judges and lawyers to uphold the fundamental rights of all citizens.

The Supreme Court of India is the highest court in the country and plays a vital role in safeguarding the Constitution and protecting the rights of citizens. The judgments delivered by the Court during CJI Ramana's tenure have made a significant contribution to the development of Indian jurisprudence and have had a lasting impact on the lives of ordinary citizens.