Meet Justice Sabyasachi Mukherjee and his Notable Judicial decisions
- ByPravleen Kaur --
- 17 Jun 2025 --
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Justice Sabyasachi Mukherjee (1 June 1927 – 25 September 1990) was the 20th Chief Justice of India, serving from December 18, 1989, until his untimely death in September 1990. Born in Calcutta into a distinguished legal family, he was educated at Mitra Institution, Presidency College, and Calcutta University, graduating with honors in Economics, before being called to the Bar at Middle Temple, London. He began his legal practice at the Calcutta High Court in 1949, focusing on civil, revenue, and constitutional cases.
Judicial Career
Justice Mukherjee’s career was marked by both judicial and administrative distinction. He was appointed a permanent judge of the Calcutta High Court in 1968, served as Acting Chief Justice there, and became a Supreme Court judge in 1983. He also contributed to public administration as a member of the Study Team on Administrative Tribunals (Administrative Reforms Commission) and as a part-time member of the 8th Finance Commission.
Landmark Judgments and Contributions
1. Bhopal Gas Leak Case Oversight
Justice Mukherjee played a crucial role in the aftermath of the Bhopal Gas Tragedy. In March 1989, he was appointed to head the Supreme Court’s panel examining the validity of the “Bhopal Gas Leak Act” and the controversial $470 million settlement with Union Carbide. He issued an initial opinion on the matter just five days after assuming office as Chief Justice, reflecting his commitment to timely judicial intervention. Although he did not live to see the case’s final resolution, his stewardship was pivotal in shaping the court’s approach to mass torts and corporate accountability.
2. Judicial Independence and Integrity
Justice Mukherjee’s tenure coincided with a period of crisis in the Indian judiciary. In 1990, allegations of corruption, nepotism, and politicization surfaced, particularly concerning the Bombay High Court, leading to what was termed a “crisis of credibility.” Mukherjee worked to uphold judicial independence and initiated efforts to address these issues, though his handling of the V. Ramaswami case—where a committee was appointed to investigate a sitting Supreme Court judge—drew criticism for not resulting in decisive corrective action. He emphasized that judges are subject to the rule of law like any other citizen and must act to maintain public faith in the judiciary.
3. Administrative and Electoral Law
As a judge of the Calcutta High Court, Mukherjee delivered a notable ruling on an election rolls issue, asserting that the timing and management of such cases were within the discretion of the sitting judge, not subject to superintending control by higher courts. This judgment reinforced the autonomy of individual judges in court administration.
Legacy
Justice Sabyasachi Mukherjee is remembered for his scholarship, administrative leadership, and commitment to judicial integrity during a challenging era. His contributions to the Bhopal Gas case, efforts to address judicial misconduct, and defense of judicial independence have left a lasting impact on the Indian legal system.
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