His Judgments Were About Understanding Lives
CJI Bhushan Ramkrishna Gavai praised Justice Abhay Oka for ensuring gratuity to Anganwadi workers, saying, “His judgments were about understanding lives, resolving real problems, and making justice accessible to everyone,” reflecting his deep commitment to social justice.
Chief Justice Bhushan Ramkrishna Gavai praised outgoing judge Justice Abhay S. Oka during a farewell event organized by the Supreme Court Bar Association.
He highlighted Justice Oka’s judgment regarding Anganwadi workers, stating that,
“It restored the faith of thousands with a single stroke of the pen.”
The ruling declared that Anganwadi workers are entitled to gratuity under the Payment of Gratuity Act, 1972.
Also Read: Justice Abhay S Oka: “A Judge Should Be Able to Offend”
CJI Gavai emphasized the importance of Anganwadi workers as essential frontline agents in healthcare and education, particularly in remote tribal areas.
He recognized Justice Oka’s significant contributions to improving their lives, noting the challenges they face, including the lack of gratuity payments.
He remarked,
“How many of you know about Anganwadi workers? Anganwadi workers are crucial frontline workers in healthcare and educational system. They serve as vital healthcare agents for children’s development.”
Gavai explained the relevance of discussing Anganwadi workers at Justice Oka’s farewell, attributing the judgment to him and highlighting its impact.
The CJI commended Justice Oka’s humanistic approach to justice, stating that his work emphasized judicial accountability and reforms.
Gavai said,
“His judgments were never about interpreting the law, they are about understanding the lives, resolving real problems and making justice accessible to everyone,”
He also noted Justice Oka’s commitment to environmental conservation, which was evident in his judicial decisions.
Finally, CJI Gavai announced plans to remove the glass partition in the Supreme Court corridors, restoring the court to its original layout after the upcoming vacation.
During a farewell event held on May 21 by the Supreme Court Advocates-on-Record Association (SCAORA), Justice Oka expressed his disagreement with the tradition of retiring judges not working on their last day.
Born on May 25, 1960, Justice Oka studied law at the University of Bombay and was enrolled as an advocate in June 1983.
He began his legal practice at the Thane District Court in his father Shreeniwas W. Oka’s chamber.
