Soli Jehangir Sorabjee, a name synonymous with Indian jurisprudence, left an indelible mark on the legal landscape of India. Born on March 9, 1930, Sorabjee's career spanned several decades, during which he was not only a formidable lawyer but also a stalwart of civil liberties and human rights.

Early Life and Education

Soli Sorabjee was born in Bombay (now Mumbai) into a Parsi family, which played a significant role in shaping his values and perspectives. He pursued his education at St. Xavier's College and later graduated in law from Government Law College, Mumbai. Sorabjee's academic prowess and dedication to the field of law were evident from the beginning, laying a strong foundation for his future endeavors.

Legal Career

Sorabjee's legal career began in the 1950s, and he quickly rose through the ranks to become one of India's most respected lawyers. He was designated a Senior Advocate by the Bombay High Court in 1971, a recognition of his exceptional skills and contributions to the legal profession. His expertise covered a wide array of legal areas, but he was particularly known for his work in constitutional law.

Attorney General of India
Sorabjee's most notable contributions came during his tenure as the Attorney General of India. He served two terms, first from 1989 to 1990 and then from 1998 to 2004. As the Attorney General, Sorabjee provided sage counsel to the government on numerous critical issues and represented India in various significant cases, both domestically and internationally.

Defender of Civil Liberties
Beyond his official roles, Sorabjee was a fierce advocate for civil liberties and human rights. He was deeply involved with the People's Union for Civil Liberties (PUCL) and other organizations dedicated to upholding democratic values and human rights in India. Sorabjee's commitment to these causes was unwavering, and he often took up cases pro bono to defend individuals whose rights were threatened.

Contributions to International Law
Sorabjee's influence was not confined to India alone. He was a member of the United Nations Sub-Commission on the Promotion and Protection of Human Rights from 1998 to 2004, contributing to global discussions on human rights. His international work further cemented his reputation as a global advocate for justice and equality.

landmark cases:

1. Kesavananda Bharati v. State of Kerala (1973)
This landmark case is one of the most important in Indian constitutional history. It established the doctrine of the basic structure of the Constitution, which means that certain fundamental features of the Constitution cannot be altered by amendments. Soli Sorabjee, along with other prominent lawyers, argued against the government's attempts to alter the Constitution radically.

2. S.R. Bommai v. Union of India (1994)
In this case, the Supreme Court addressed the misuse of Article 356, which allows for President's Rule in states. The judgment was a significant check on arbitrary dismissal of state governments and reinforced the principle of federalism. Sorabjee argued for the importance of federal structure and the need for judicial review of the President's Rule.

3. Maneka Gandhi v. Union of India (1978)
This case expanded the interpretation of the right to life and personal liberty under Article 21 of the Constitution. The Supreme Court held that these rights could not be curtailed except according to the procedure established by law, which must be fair, just, and reasonable. Sorabjee's arguments in this case helped broaden the scope of fundamental rights in India.

4. Vishaka v. State of Rajasthan (1997)
This landmark judgment laid down guidelines for preventing sexual harassment at the workplace. The Supreme Court, in the absence of specific legislation, issued guidelines that were to be treated as law until a suitable law was enacted by the legislature. Sorabjee's involvement underscored his commitment to human rights and gender equality.

5. SR Bommai v. Union of India (1994)
Sorabjee argued in this case, which is pivotal for its interpretation of the secular nature of the Indian Constitution. The judgment established that the state must remain secular and cannot favor any religion, which is fundamental to the Constitution’s basic structure.

6. T.M.A. Pai Foundation v. State of Karnataka (2002)
This case dealt with the rights of minorities to establish and administer educational institutions. The judgment clarified the extent of state control over such institutions and the rights of minorities under Article 30 of the Constitution. Sorabjee's arguments helped delineate the autonomy of educational institutions from excessive government regulation.

7. P. Sambamurthy v. State of Andhra Pradesh (1987)
In this case, Sorabjee argued against the amendment to the Andhra Pradesh Administrative Tribunal Act, which was deemed to undermine the judicial review powers of the High Court. The Supreme Court struck down the amendment, reinforcing the importance of judicial review in the Indian legal system.

8. Narmada Bachao Andolan v. Union of India (2000)
This case involved the controversial Sardar Sarovar Project on the Narmada River. Sorabjee represented the government, defending the project against activists who argued it would displace thousands and cause environmental harm. The Supreme Court eventually allowed the project to proceed, emphasizing developmental needs while also considering rehabilitation for the displaced.

9. R. Rajagopal v. State of Tamil Nadu (1994)
This case, also known as the "Auto Shankar case," involved the right to privacy and freedom of expression. The Supreme Court upheld the right to privacy and laid down important guidelines for the freedom of the press. Sorabjee’s advocacy was crucial in balancing these fundamental rights.

10. S.P. Gupta v. Union of India (1981)
Also known as the Judges' Transfer Case, this judgment asserted the independence of the judiciary and the transparency in the appointment and transfer of judges. Sorabjee's role in this case was pivotal in defending judicial independence against executive interference.

Soli Sorabjee’s contributions to Indian jurisprudence extend far beyond these notable cases. His arguments have shaped the interpretation of constitutional provisions and the protection of fundamental rights, leaving a lasting legacy on the Indian legal system. Through his work, Sorabjee not only upheld the rule of law but also ensured that justice and fairness remained central to Indian democracy.
Honors and Awards

In recognition of his immense contributions to law and society, Sorabjee received numerous accolades throughout his career. He was awarded the Padma Vibhushan, India's second-highest civilian honor, in 2002. This award was a testament to his extraordinary service to the nation and his enduring impact on Indian jurisprudence.

Legacy and Impact
Soli Sorabjee passed away on April 30, 2021, but his legacy continues to inspire generations of lawyers and human rights advocates. His life's work serves as a powerful reminder of the role that legal professionals can play in safeguarding democracy and upholding the rule of law. Sorabjee's dedication to justice, his eloquence in court, and his unwavering commitment to civil liberties have left an indelible mark on India's legal and societal fabric.

Conclusion

Soli Sorabjee's life was a beacon of legal brilliance, moral integrity, and relentless pursuit of justice. His contributions to Indian and international law have left a lasting legacy, making him one of the most revered figures in the annals of legal history. As India continues to evolve, Sorabjee's work remains a guiding light, reminding us of the power of law as a tool for social change and the importance of protecting human rights for all.

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