The Kerala High Court witnessed a solemn and respectful ceremony on Friday as it convened a full court reference to bid adieu to its Chief Justice, Nitin Jamdar, who is retiring from judicial service. The event marked the culmination of Justice Jamdar's tenure, which, though brief in Kerala, was part of a long and illustrious legal career.
A Ceremony of Respect and Reflection
The farewell gathering saw addresses from key legal figures. Justice A K Jayasankaran Nambiar, the senior-most judge of the high court, led the tributes. He was joined by Advocate General K Gopalakrishna Kurup and Kerala High Court Advocates' Association president Peeyus A Kottam, who shared their appreciations for the outgoing Chief Justice's contributions.
In his farewell speech, Justice Jamdar reflected on the esteemed legacy of the Kerala High Court. He observed that the court's judgments have been a steadfast beacon, consistently upholding the foundational principles of equality, secularism, and justice. He remarked that the institution has often been ahead of its time, delivering pioneering and people-centric verdicts across several critical domains.
A Legacy of Progressive Jurisprudence
Justice Jamdar specifically highlighted the court's forward-thinking approach in areas such as gender justice, environmental protection, and civil liberties. His comments underscored the court's reputation for judicial activism and its role in shaping a more equitable society through its rulings.
The Journey of a Third-Generation Legal Luminary
Justice Nitin Jamdar was transferred to the Kerala High Court on September 26, 2024, while serving as a senior judge of the Bombay High Court. His legal roots run deep. Born in Solapur in 1964 into a family of lawyers, he is a third-generation legal professional.
His early education took place across various institutions in Maharashtra. He later pursued and obtained his degrees in Commerce and Law from Sydenham Commerce College and Government Law College in Mumbai, laying a strong academic foundation for his career.
A Stellar Practice at the Bombay High Court
Before his elevation to the bench, Justice Jamdar built a formidable practice at the Bombay High Court. His expertise spanned diverse fields, with a primary focus on administrative and constitutional law. His clientele included several significant public bodies, which speaks volumes about his standing in the legal community.
He represented numerous zilla parishads, municipal councils, municipal corporations, and universities. On the national stage, his roles were equally prestigious; he represented the Bar Council of India and served as the senior standing counsel for the Union of India. This extensive experience culminated in his appointment as a judge of the Bombay High Court on January 23, 2012.
Conclusion: A Chapter Closes
The full court reference was more than a formal goodbye; it was a recognition of a judicial career dedicated to the interpretation and upholding of the law. Justice Nitin Jamdar's journey from a practicing lawyer in Bombay to the Chief Justice of Kerala highlights a path marked by deep legal knowledge and service. His acknowledgment of the Kerala High Court's progressive legacy serves as both a compliment and a benchmark for the future, as the court continues its work without his stewardship.
