Justice Harjit Singh Bedi: A gentleman judge whose legacy transcends the Bench

A judge is often measured by the weight of his judgments, but Justice Harjit Singh Bedi will be remembered for far more than the wisdom etched into his rulings. His legacy extends beyond the confines of courtrooms, into a realm where justice demanded not just intellect, but courage, empathy, and an unwavering sense of fairness.

Post-retirement, Justice Bedi offered his unparalleled insight to untangle some of the nation’s most contentious chapters. As chairperson of the special task force investigating alleged fake encounters in Gujarat, he navigated the fraught terrain with a rare balance of empathy and rigor, embodying the very essence of justice. Tasked by the Jammu and Kashmir Government to probe the mysterious death of National Conference activist Mohammad Yousuf Shah, Justice Bedi approached the assignment also with the same tenacity and care that defined his career.

Justice Bedi breathed his last on Thursday evening. Born on September 5, 1946, in Sahiwal, now in Pakistan, Justice Bedi belonged to a lineage as illustrious as his own life’s work — directly descending from Guru Nanak, the founder of Sikhism. Yet, it was neither ancestry nor accolades that defined him, but his profound sense of humanity, impeccable manners, and deep-rooted belief in justice.

Justice Bedi’s life was a confluence of tradition and modernity. His formative years at Bishop Cotton School, Shimla, polished a gentleman who valued dignity above all. Those who met him remember him for his poised demeanor — a gentle firmness that was as reassuring as it was commanding. But beneath his refined exterior was an unyielding commitment to the rule of law, a trait evident from his early days as an advocate.

Starting as a young lawyer enrolled with the Bar Council of Punjab & Haryana in 1972, Justice Bedi made an indelible mark in civil, criminal and writ matters. His academic engagement as a part-time lecturer in law at Panjab University, Chandigarh, further showcased his intellectual acumen.

Ascending the ranks of Punjab’s legal framework, from Deputy Advocate-General to Advocate-General, Justice Bedi became synonymous with fairness and integrity. His transition to the judiciary in 1991 as a Judge of the Punjab and Haryana High Court brought these qualities to the Bench, where they flourished. His appointment as the Chief Justice of the Bombay High Court in 2006 and as a Judge of the Supreme Court in 2007 culminated a remarkable judicial career.

Justice Bedi’s judgments spoke as eloquently as the man himself. Known for their clarity and compassion, they often reflected his nuanced understanding of human nature. Friends and colleagues fondly recall a man who never allowed his stature to overshadow his warmth. He was as courteous in casual conversation as he was incisive in court.

Justice Bedi was “a gentleman judge” in the truest sense — a rarity in any age. Rest in peace, Justice Bedi! The world is lesser for your absence, but so much richer for your presence.

Was a fine human being: Justice Sodhi

Justice Bedi’s judicial career was marked by a strong sense of justice and compassion with politeness and courtesy towards lawyers who appeared before him. Above all, he was a fine human being. — Justice SS Sodhi, former Chief Justice of Allahabad High Court