Historic Gathering of International Judiciary at Supreme Court
In an unprecedented event that marked a significant moment in India's judicial history, the Supreme Court assembled a global bench on Wednesday. For the first time ever, chief justices and senior-most judges from six different countries joined Chief Justice of India Surya Kant and Justice Joymalya Bagchi to observe firsthand how India's highest court conducts its proceedings.
Distinguished International Delegation
The distinguished gathering included some of the most prominent legal minds from across the world. Chief Justice of Bhutan Lyonpo Norbu Tshering, who completed his LLB from Delhi University's Campus Law Centre, was among the honored guests. The delegation also featured Chief Justice and President of Kenyan Supreme Court Martha Koome, Mauritius Chief Justice Bibi Rehana Mungly-Gulbul, and Sri Lankan Chief Justice P Padman Surasena.
Completing the international contingent were Justice Tan Sri Datuk Nallini Pathmanathan, the most senior judge of Malaysian Federal Court, and Justice Sapana Pradhan Malla, the most senior judge of Nepal Supreme Court.
Observance of Actual Court Proceedings
The international delegation witnessed live proceedings that included significant cases being heard by the Indian Supreme Court. They observed the adjudication of bail for an academician accused of sexual harassment and also watched proceedings related to the Andhra Pradesh liquor case. This provided the visiting justices with genuine insight into the day-to-day functioning of India's apex court.
While the tradition of having foreign chief justices and judges as guests on the dais in the CJI's courtroom isn't new, this event marked the first time that chief justices from so many countries had partnered on the bench, even though they didn't participate in the actual adjudication process.
Recognition and Praise from International Counterparts
Following the proceedings, Chief Justice Surya Kant described the occasion as a historic moment for the Supreme Court of India, emphasizing the significance of having so many legal luminaries assembled together.
The international judges expressed their admiration and respect for the Indian judiciary. Chief Justice Martha Koome of Kenya revealed that the Kenyan Supreme Court often looks up to the constitutional interpretations made by the Indian Supreme Court for guidance.
Chief Justice Norbu Tshering of Bhutan acknowledged that the basic structure doctrine developed by the Indian Supreme Court continues to serve as a guiding principle in judicial matters. He also remarked on the impressive number of advocates present, stating, "I have never seen so many advocates in a courtroom."
Sri Lankan Chief Justice P Padman Surasena highlighted the historical connections between the two countries' legal systems, noting that while the Supreme Court at Madras was established in 1800, the Sri Lankan Supreme Court followed in 1801, and both nations have since maintained similar legal traditions.
Justice Sapana Pradhan Malla of Nepal expressed her privilege at being part of this global bench, while her Malaysian counterpart, Justice Nallini Pathmanathan, acknowledged that her country's highest court regularly follows the rulings and fundamental principles of jurisprudence developed by the Indian Supreme Court.
Formal Welcome and Courtesies
The event saw formal welcomes extended to the international delegation from various quarters. Solicitor General Tushar Mehta welcomed the distinguished guests on behalf of the Indian government, while senior advocates Kapil Sibal and Rakesh Dwivedi extended courtesies on behalf of the advocates' community.
This gathering not only strengthened international judicial cooperation but also showcased India's growing influence in the global legal landscape. The event demonstrated how Indian jurisprudence and constitutional interpretations have become reference points for other Commonwealth countries and beyond.
