The Bar Council of India (BCI) today requested the Supreme Court Bar Association (SCBA) and the Supreme Court Advocates-on-Record Association (SCAORA) to reconsider their decision to not hold a farewell for Justice Bela M Trivedi..BCI Chairman Manan Kumar Mishra wrote to the Presidents and Secretaries of both the SCBA and SCAORA, saying that the refusal to host a farewell not only breaks a long-standing tradition, but also risks conveying an unintended and disheartening message to the judiciary and the wider legal community."By reconsidering the decision to deny a farewell to Justice Bela Trivedi, the SCBA and SCAORA would reinforce their status as esteemed custodians of tradition and integrity, demonstrating to law students, lawyers, and citizens alike the important responsibilities they shoulder in shaping the legal framework," the letter reads..During today's ceremonial bench hearing, Chief Justice of India (CJI) BR Gavai and Justice AG Masih also expressed concern over the apparent decision of the SCBA and the SCAORA to forego organising an official farewell for the retiring judge.Traditionally, both SCBA and SCAORA host farewell ceremonies to honour outgoing Supreme Court judges. However, as of now, neither body has made any announcement regarding such an event for Justice Trivedi..In his letter, the BCI Chairman said that throughout her tenure, Justice Trivedi has been a "symbol of judicial fortitude and moral rectitude"."Her consistent emphasis on fairness, accountability, and ethical conduct has been a guiding light. Despite facing challenging circumstances, she has remained unyielding in her dedication to the principles of justice, refusing to yield to external pressures and always acting in accordance with her inner conscience," Mishra wrote in the letter..He, therefore, urged the SCBA and SCAORA to reconsider their decision."Such a farewell is not merely a matter of protocol but a reaffirmation of our collective commitment to the traditions, principles, and decorum that define the judicial institution. Let us not forget that institutions are sustained by traditions, and traditions are upheld by the respect we accord to those who serve them with distinction and honor," he said..[Read Letter]
