KKN Gurugram Desk | On May 24, 2025, Justice Abhay Shreeniwas Oka, one of the senior-most judges of the Supreme Court of India, is set to retire. His final working day, May 23, 2025, was marked with a ceremonial farewell, presided over by Chief Justice of India (CJI) D.Y. Chandrachud, where warm memories, admiration, and judicial integrity took center stage.
What stood out even more was that despite losing his mother just a day before, Justice Oka chose to attend court and performed his duties with remarkable composure. He delivered 11 judgments on his last day, reflecting his unwavering commitment to justice and duty.
Justice Oka’s Judicial Journey and Final Day Highlights
Born on May 25, 1960, Justice Oka began his legal career in Bombay High Court, where he was known for his rigorous advocacy and command over constitutional law. He was elevated as a judge of the Bombay High Court in 2003 and went on to become Chief Justice of Karnataka High Court in 2019, before being appointed to the Supreme Court of India in August 2021.
In an era where judicial decorum and public accountability are under constant scrutiny, Justice Oka’s decision to deliver 11 judgments on his final working day is both rare and commendable. It was a definitive display of judicial dedication, leaving behind a legacy of ethical adjudication and disciplined service.
Chief Justice Gavai’s Emotional Tribute
During the ceremonial bench, CJI B.R. Gavai, a close friend and former classmate of Justice Oka at Government Law College (GLC), Mumbai, delivered a heartfelt farewell speech that reflected their 40-year-long friendship and professional camaraderie.
Key Excerpts from CJI Gavai’s Remarks:
“Justice Oka and I have known each other since our days at GLC. We were both practicing at the Bombay High Court and shared a commitment to upholding justice and integrity.”
“He has always been a professor of both law and ethics in his courtroom. His firm decisions were guided by moral clarity and a strong understanding of the law.”
CJI Gavai noted that Justice Oka never occupied the official judge’s bungalow after his elevation, reflecting his minimalist lifestyle and humility. He also praised Oka’s long-standing advocacy for environmental protection and judicial ethics, highlighting his bold judgments that often served the greater public interest, even at the cost of controversy.
A Legacy of Principles and Values
Throughout his judicial career, Justice Oka was known for his fearlessness, integrity, and intellectual depth. His tenure included landmark decisions on civil liberties, environmental law, and constitutional rights.
He believed in encouraging ethical conduct among lawyers, often reminding the bar that “advocates are the first officers of the court.” His courtroom became a space where legal knowledge and moral conscience intersected.
One notable gesture from his past: He played a pivotal role in establishing a National Law University in Aurangabad, further solidifying his commitment to expanding access to quality legal education.
Inheritance of Resolve: A Tribute to His Late Mother
CJI Gavai revealed that Justice Oka’s resolute nature and unwavering moral compass were inherited from his late mother. He referred to Marathi news publications that had previously credited Justice Oka’s perseverance and strength to his mother’s influence.
“He lost his mother yesterday, yet chose to fulfill his duties with dignity today. That strength comes from a deep-rooted sense of responsibility,” said the CJI.
The timing of her passing, just before his retirement, adds a deeply emotional layer to Justice Oka’s final day—yet he honored her memory by performing his duty till the very end.
What Lies Ahead for Justice Oka Post-Retirement?
CJI Gavai also gave a glimpse into Justice Oka’s post-retirement plans, although not many specifics were disclosed publicly.
He hinted at Justice Oka’s continued involvement in academia and judicial mentorship, given his passion for teaching and nurturing the next generation of lawyers. His likely engagement in legal education, environment-focused judicial initiatives, and public ethics campaigns will be a continuation of his values-driven career.
While formal announcements are expected post-retirement, it’s clear that Justice Oka will not be stepping away from public service entirely.
Why Justice Oka’s Departure is Significant
Justice Oka’s retirement comes at a time when India’s judiciary faces questions on independence, transparency, and efficiency. His presence in the Supreme Court was often seen as a balancing force, someone who merged technical knowledge with moral intuition.
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He consistently upheld constitutional values
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Never shied away from questioning executive actions
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Handled PILs and civil liberties cases with depth and clarity
His judgments often reflected a concern for the common man, and his courtroom decorum set a benchmark for judicial dignity.
Tributes from the Bar and Bench
Members of the Supreme Court Bar Association (SCBA) and fellow judges hailed Justice Oka’s legacy. They praised:
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His judicial courage
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Uncompromising stand on constitutional principles
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Unmatched courtroom discipline
He was also widely respected among junior lawyers for his accessibility, mentorship, and simplicity.
Justice Abhay S. Oka’s retirement marks the end of an illustrious judicial journey, but his influence on India’s legal ecosystem will continue. From his early days in the Bombay High Court to his final judgments in the Supreme Court, he stood as a symbol of what principled judiciary leadership should look like.
As the Supreme Court moves forward, Justice Oka’s legacy will remain a guiding light—reminding legal professionals and society alike that law is not just a profession, but a sacred duty.
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