Justice Ruma Pal, born on 3 June 1941, is a distinguished former judge of the Supreme Court of India, known for her significant contributions to the field of law and her notable judgements in critical cases. Her career spans a rich history in legal practice, scholarly endeavors, and advocacy for human rights.
| Aspect | Details |
| Full Name | Ruma Pal |
| Date of Birth | 3 June 1941 |
| Place of Birth | Not specified |
| Career | – B.C.L degree from St Anne’s College, Oxford in 1968 |
| – Started practice in 1968 in Civil, Revenue, Labour, and Constitutional matters in Calcutta High Court | |
| – Appointed Judge in Calcutta High Court on 6 August 1990 | |
| – Nominated to Supreme Court of India on 28 January 2000 | |
| Career Highlights | – Edited textbooks for legal studies, including the famous book on Indian Constitutional Law by Prof. M P Jain |
| – Chancellor of Sikkim University | |
| – Trustee of legal diversity Nonprofit organization Increasing Diversity by Increasing Access | |
| Notable Contributions | – Delivered critical judgments in famous cases |
| – Member of the International Forum of Women Judges | |
| Education | – B.C.L degree at St Anne’s College, Oxford |
| Retirement Date | Retired on 3 June 2006 from the Supreme Court of India |
Early Life and Education
Justice Pal pursued her academic journey at St Anne’s College, Oxford, where she earned her B.C.L degree. Her commitment to legal studies was evident from the beginning, and she embarked on her professional journey by commencing practice in 1968. Her expertise encompassed Civil, Revenue, Labour, and Constitutional matters within the Calcutta High Court. Notably, her husband, Samaraditya Pal, was a well-known barrister in Kolkata, adding to the legal legacy of the family.
Career
After establishing herself as an accomplished advocate, Justice Pal’s judicial journey commenced with her appointment as a Judge in the Calcutta High Court on 6 August 1990. Her deep understanding of legal intricacies and commitment to justice led to her further nomination to the Supreme Court of India on 28 January 2000, coinciding with the Golden Jubilee of the court.
Justice Pal left an indelible mark on the legal landscape, delivering critical judgments in renowned cases. Her contributions extended beyond the courtroom, as she actively engaged in writing on various human rights issues. As a member of the International Forum of Women Judges, she advocated for gender equality and justice.
Her involvement in legal education is noteworthy, as she edited several textbooks, including the renowned book on Indian Constitutional Law by Prof. M P Jain, considered an authority in the field. Justice Pal’s commitment to legal scholarship and education is further exemplified by her role as the Chancellor of Sikkim University.
Additionally, she assumed responsibilities as one of the trustees of the legal diversity nonprofit organization, Increasing Diversity by Increasing Access, reflecting her dedication to fostering inclusivity within the legal profession.
Retirement and Legacy
Justice Ruma Pal retired from the Supreme Court of India on 3 June 2006, concluding a career marked by legal excellence, scholarly contributions, and a commitment to human rights.
