Mumbai’s loss, Allahbad’s gain: Godspeed Justice Rebello
So the day comes at last, when Justice F. I. Rebello is elevated as Chief Justice. Mumbai’s loss is Allahbad’s gain.
We rejoice in his success, and wait for the next, when we get to make that special bow in New Delhi. Those of our tribe who have that good fortune will probably have to struggle to conceal a smile of pride. Let no one forget that Justice Rebello is one of ours, a judge of the Bombay High Court.
When Justice Rebello remarks that the junior Bar in the High Court has developed well (his words), he does himself a singular injustice, for he is one of those principally responsible for it. Unfailingly courteous in court, his gentle touch and wry sense of humour — he is as slow to anger as he is quick to laughter — were not only endearing but gave many juniors the confidence and encouragement they need in court.
But there was always something else about his court, and very likely it was this: the certainty that before him no injustice could triumph, no just cause be lost, no citizen’s lament left unheard. Time and again, his court weighed in fearlessly on the side of the public interest and, politely but in no uncertain terms, showed oppressors the door. No advocate complained about not being fully heard — Justice Rebello evidently is a man of much fortitude and endurance (which some of us have repeatedly tested).
Some things he holds dear, firm and close and among these are the central tenets of Gandhiji’s teachings. May they continue to guide his hand and mind as they have these many years.
Not for the first time, and hopefully not the last, our city gives to the country the finest in law.