People's Democracy

AIDWA Pays Homage to Justice J S Verma

The following is the statement issued by AIDWA on April 23:

AIDWA expresses its shock at the sudden demise of Justice JS Verma, former CJI and chairman of the National Human Rights Commission.  In his death, all those fighting against injustice and oppression have lost a true friend and supporter.  Shri JS Verma had visited Gujarat after the State-sponsored pogrom of Muslims in 2002.  As chairman of the NHRC he had authored a detailed report on the killings and on the acts of omission and commission of the state government. The significance of this Report cannot be exaggerated.  It was the first comprehensive indictment of the Modi administration the credibility of which could not be doubted by anyone.

Recently, in the wake of the "Damini" gang rape case of December 2012, the government of India appointed a commission under the chairmanship of Justice Verma to suggest amendments in the Criminal Law.  Despite many hurdles, Justice Verma brought all his legal acumen, energy and concentration to the task and completed it one day before the expiry of the one month period that he had been assigned.  Every page of the report bears testimony to his deep understanding of Indian social realities and his sensitivity to gender inequality, poverty and injustice.

AIDWA pays homage to the memory of Justice Verma with whom many AIDWA members had the privilege to interact on many occasions.  He was always accessible and ready to help.  He will be sorely missed.  AIDWA also conveys heartfelt condolences to his wife and family.

Brinda Karat, member of the Polit Bureau of the CPI(M) visited Justice J.S. Verma's residence to pay homage to him. She laid a wreath on his body on behalf of the Party on April 23. She also attended his funeral.