Delhi High Court Bar Association Honors Legal Pioneers in Landmark Cases
Former Chief Justice of India, NV Ramana, as Chief Guest
In a historic initiative, the Delhi High Court Bar Association (DHCBA), in partnership with Live4Freedom LLP, unveiled the inaugural "Fight for Justice Awards" to acknowledge litigants who triumphed against daunting challenges in Supreme Court cases, resulting in groundbreaking judgments and legal reforms.
1. Criminal Case
Recipient: Asha Devi (Nirbhaya’s mother)Asha Devi relentlessly pursued justice for her daughter, Nirbhaya, catalyzing significant changes in criminal law, including the recognition of offenses like acid attacks, voyeurism, and stalking.
2. Women Case
Recipient: Shayara BanoShayara Bano contested the practice of Triple Talaq, leading to the Supreme Court's 2017 declaration that deemed the practice unconstitutional.
3. Administration and Governance Case
Recipients: Commanders Annie Nagaraja and Priya KhuranaThe case by Commanders Annie Nagaraja and Priya Khurana established that Short Service Commission women officers in the Navy were entitled to permanent commission, ensuring gender equality.
4. Labour Case
Recipient: Bezwada WilsonBezwada Wilson, founder of Safai Karmachari Andolan, played a pivotal role in securing a Supreme Court order for ₹10 lakh compensation in each case of death due to manual scavenging.
5. Environment Case
Recipient: Late Abdul Jabbar KhanAbdul Jabbar Khan, a Bhopal Gas Tragedy victim turned activist, fought for justice in the Supreme Court, highlighting the plight of victims.
6. Specially-abled Persons Case
Recipient: Nipun MalhotraNipun Malhotra, born with a rare disease, contributed to exemptions for specially-abled persons during Delhi's odd-even scheme and advocated for greater accessibility.
7. Child Rights Case
Recipient: Bachpan Bachao AndolanFounded by Nobel laureate Kailash Satyarthi, the organization compelled the Supreme Court to issue directives to protect children from alcohol and drug abuse.
8. Lifetime Achievement
Recipient: Neelam Krishnamoorthy (for Uphaar tragedy case)Neelam Krishnamoorthy, co-founder of AVUT, fought a two-decade legal battle against the Ansals following the 1997 Uphaar Cinema fire tragedy.
Acknowledging Unsung Heroes
DHCBA Vice-President Jatan Singh expressed that the awards recognize litigants who, through their perseverance, not only sought justice for themselves but also positively impacted society.
The event underscores the integral role litigants play in the 'temple of justice,' alongside judges and lawyers. The awards, determined by a distinguished jury, celebrate individuals who have significantly contributed to the rule of law with their unwavering commitment.