Introduction

Ram Jethmalani, a name synonymous with legal brilliance and unyielding advocacy, was one of India's most celebrated and controversial lawyers. He was born on 14^th September 1923, in Shikarpur, Sindh (now in Pakistan). His brilliance was not just confined to courtrooms; he also had a foray into politics, his life was full of varied experiences which can guide young lawyers and advocates. He died on 8^th September 2019 in New Delhi.

How was the Career Journey of Ram Jethmalani?

• Ram Jethmalani completed his bachelor's in law at the age of 17 and enrolled in the Bar Council at the age of 18 years.
• He represented his clients in the Supreme Court as a Senior Counsel.
• He served as a Member of Parliament in the Rajya Sabha multiple times and was also the Union Minister of Law and Justice in the government led by former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee.

What were the Notable Cases Argued by Ram Jethmalani?

• K M Nanavati v. State of Maharashtra (1962):
  • One of the earliest high-profile cases that catapulted Jethmalani into the national limelight was the infamous Nanavati case.
  • Naval Commander K M Nanavati was tried for the murder of businessman, whom he suspected of having an affair with his wife.
  • The businessman was defended by Ram Jethmalani.
  • The case not only marked a turning point in Jethmalani's career but also had a lasting impact on the legal system, eventually leading to the abolition of the jury system in India.

• Kehar Singh And Anr. Etc v. Union of India (1988):
  • Ram Jethmalani defended the assassin of former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi.
  • The SC in this case upheld the grant of pardon by President under Article 72 as an act of grace.
• Harshad Mehta Securities Scam (1992):
  • Ram Jethmalani represented Harshad Mehta, the infamous stockbroker accused of financial irregularities in his 70 cases.
  • Jethmalani skillfully navigated through the complex web of financial transactions and regulations.
  • Although Harshad Mehta's conviction was later upheld, Ram Jethmalani's defence brought attention to the loopholes in the financial system and regulatory framework.
• Manohar Joshi v. Nitin Bhaurao Patil (1995):
  • The case revolved around the interpretation of the term 'Hindutva' and whether its use during election campaigns amounted to a corrupt practice under the Representation of the People Act, 1951.
  • Ram Jethmalani argued that 'Hindutva' was a way of life and not a religion, and its use in political discourse was legitimate.
  • The SC, in its judgment, endorsed this view, stating that the terms 'Hindutva' or 'Hinduism' did not refer to a particular religion but encompassed a way of life.
• State NCT of Delhi v. Syed Abdul Rehman Gilani (2004):
  • Ram Jethmalani appeared on behalf of Syed Abdul Rehman Gilani in the Parliament attack case which led to the acquittal of the accused.
• Arun Jaitley v. Arvind Kejriwal (2017):
  • Ram Jethmalani represented Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal in a case filed by the then-Finance Minister Arun Jaitley.
  • During the proceedings, Jethmalani, known for his candid and sometimes controversial remarks, made headlines by using strong language against Jaitley.
  • The case drew attention not only for its legal implications but also for the courtroom drama that unfolded during the cross-examination.

What are Important Quotes by Ram Jethmalani?

• Ram Jethmalani said that “The function of the judge is to see that law is enforced and the lawbreaker punished. Today the Rule of Law is unfortunately displaced by the rule of successive scams. The soul of Law is in torment. Good lawyers and all good men can see that law enforcement is suffering from lack of oxygen”.
  • It needs fresh air to fuel the combustion hidden in its heart.