'Guiding Philosophy Behind Constitution Not Merely A Promise On Paper, But A Reality In People's Lives': Justice K Somasekhar

On Wednesday, Justice K Somasekhar bid farewell to the Karnataka High Court after the Central Government notified his appointment as Chief Justice of the Manipur High Court on May 20.

In his farewell speech, the judge emphasised that the Constitution is not merely a legal document but a social contract and a moral compass.

"The guiding philosophy behind its making was to ensure that justice, social, economic, political, is not a promise on the paper but a reality in the lives of people, ” he said.

He observed that the words of the preamble, which highlight the importance of equality, fraternity and dignity of individuals and the unity and integrity of the nation, must inspire conduct on the bench and beyond.

On his elevation as Chief Justice, he said, “I accept this position with responsibility and with an unwavering pledge to uphold the majesty of law and sacrosanct principles enshrined in the Constitution of India. The Constitution is the crowned norm of democratic polity, it enjoins upon every organ of the state, especially the judiciary. The duty to safeguard the rule of law and secure the rights of citizens and ensure that justice is not a privilege but a right accessible to all.”

“I reaffirm my allegiance to the Constitution of India and Rule of law. I seek blessings of the almighty and all those present here, so that I may uphold the dignity of my office and maintain the sanctity of this institution and contribute meaningfully to the justice delivery system in our pluralistic democracy,” he added.

The judge further stressed that a Constitutional order is one where the weakest are protected, where the law is a shield and not a sword, and where the institution stands above any individual.

“It is in the spirit of these words carved with conviction and consecrated by sacrifice that I dedicate myself to the service of the judiciary and the cause of justice,” he said.