Safiya Malik

On his last working day, Justice C.T. Ravikumar of the Supreme Court was lauded for his remarkable judicial career and inspiring personal journey. Chief Justice of India (CJI) Sanjiv Khanna, along with the Supreme Court Bar Association (SCBA) and legal luminaries, paid heartfelt tributes to Justice Ravikumar, describing him as a "humane and noble soul" who leaves behind a legacy of integrity and excellence. Justice Ravikumar, who retires on January 5, 2025, has been recognized for his contributions to the judiciary and his unassuming yet impactful presence.

Born on January 6, 1960, in Peermadu, Kerala, Justice Ravikumar’s journey is a testament to perseverance and dedication. After graduating in zoology from Bishop Moore College, Mavelikara, he earned his law degree from Government Law College, Calicut. He began his legal career in the courts of Mavelikara before moving to the Kerala High Court, where he was appointed an additional judge in 2009 and became a permanent judge in 2010. Justice Ravikumar was elevated to the Supreme Court on August 31, 2021.

Reflecting on his remarkable journey, CJI Khanna said, “Coming from a rural background and achieving the distinction of serving as a judge of the Supreme Court is a remarkable accomplishment. Justice Ravikumar has not only achieved this but also outperformed in his duties.” The Chief Justice acknowledged  his unwavering commitment to justice and called him an inspiration for future generations of the judiciary.

Speaking at his farewell function organized by the SCBA, Justice Ravikumar said “Often times we used to say, judiciary is the guardian of the Constitution. Then the question is, who should be the guardian of the judiciary? It should be we the people of India,” He expressed confidence in the judiciary's role in protecting citizens' rights with the aid of the Constitution.

Justice Ravikumar also said about the importance of constructive criticism of judicial decisions, quoting, “I disapprove of what you say but I will defend to the death your right to say it.” He stated that such criticism, when done in the right spirit, aids the development of law.

Justice Ravikumar appealed to lawyers to approach courtroom interactions with patience, particularly when questioned by judges during hearings. He remarked, “When we say a judge should be patient, what about the lawyer? Even they should be patient. Do not think the judge is there to oppose you. We are there to listen, and questions are to pick what is there.”

On the issue of adjournments, he commented, “Adjournments should be utilized to read the same thing twice, thrice, and be better prepared.”

Prominent legal figures, including Attorney General R. Venkataramani, Solicitor General Tushar Mehta, and SCBA President Kapil Sibal, offered glowing tributes to Justice Ravikumar. The Solicitor General remarked, “Your Lordship never was a god-fearing man but always a god-loving person... We have never felt Your Lordship getting angry or making us uncomfortable.”

Sibal, reflecting on Justice Ravikumar’s love for nature and cricket, shared, “Just as you watch nature every day for half an hour, so do I, because I learn every day from nature itself. Animals never kill unless hungry, but human beings are not like that.” He described Justice Ravikumar as “simple, unassuming, thoughtful, loving, and hearing everybody.”

During the ceremonial bench proceedings, Justice Ravikumar expressed his gratitude to the Bar for its unwavering support. He said, “I was an advocate, and that advocate remains in me. That is why I always hold the Bar in the highest respect.” He also pledged to uphold the values of the judiciary post-retirement, stating, “I will not do anything to shatter the confidence of the people in this institution. I will continue as a law-building citizen.”