I WOULD RATHER DIE THAN BE CALLED A “COWARD JUDGE
कायर न्यायाधीश कहलाने से बेहतर मरना पसंद करें
PRESS RELEASE
“A JUDGE MUST NOT FEAR THE POWERFUL — JUSTICE MUST REMAIN FEARLESS.”
Dr. Anthony Raju, Advocate, Supreme Court of India, appreciates the courage and principled stand expressed by Hon’ble Additional District & Sessions Judge Shri Ravi Kumar Diwakar, Muzaffarnagar.
The reported observations of Judge Ravi Kumar Diwakar have brought an important question concerning judicial independence, institutional transparency and the Rule of Law into public discussion.
According to LiveLaw, Judge Diwakar claimed that serious cases were recalled from his court to benefit mafia, gangsters and criminals, and stated that he would rather die than be called a “coward judge.” LiveLaw also reported that 97 pending cases involving murder and other serious offences had earlier been recalled from his court.
Bar & Bench reported that the judge alleged that the transfer of around 100 criminal cases was intended to protect mafia, gangsters and criminals, while also reporting his statement that he would rather die than be called a cowardly judge.
India Today reported the judge's assertion that approximately 100 criminal cases had been transferred from his court and that he had spoken of threats and the need for judicial protection.
The Statesman, PTI/Rediff, ABP Live and Times of India have also reported on the judge's remarks, the case transfers and his strong statement regarding judicial courage and independence.
MY VIEW
As a lawyer committed to the Constitution and the Rule of Law, I believe that a fearless judiciary is indispensable to a free and democratic society.
A judge must be able to decide cases according to law, evidence and conscience, without fear of criminals, mafias, political influence, social pressure or any other extraneous consideration.
I therefore respectfully appreciate Judge Ravi Kumar Diwakar for having the courage to place his concerns on record.
His reported words—
“I would rather die than be called a coward judge.”
—carry a powerful message about the responsibility attached to judicial office.
At the same time, the allegations concerning the reasons for transferring or recalling cases are serious matters. They should be examined through proper institutional mechanisms, due process and verifiable facts. The dignity of the judiciary is best protected not by silence, but by transparency, accountability and adherence to law.
JUSTICE CANNOT HAVE TWO STANDARDS.
The ordinary citizen, the victim, the accused and the most powerful person in society must all stand before the same law.
No mafia. No political power. No influence. No fear should be above the Rule of Law.
I salute every judicial officer who performs constitutional duties with courage, integrity and independence.
Justice must not merely be delivered.
Justice must remain fearless.
— Dr. Anthony Raju
Advocate, Supreme Court of India
Media Reports: LiveLaw | Bar & Bench | India Today | The Statesman | PTI/Rediff | ABP Live | Times of India
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Citation for Most Rev. Dr. Anthony Raju
Advocate, Supreme Court of India | Global Peace & Human Rights Defender
In deep recognition and honour of Most Rev. Dr. Anthony Raju, a towering luminary in the field of law, human rights, and global peace diplomacy, whose exemplary dedication and unparalleled contribution to the cause of justice, social reform, and human dignity have earned him the stature of one of the most respected and authoritative voices on Human Rights and Constitutional Law in the world today.
Dr. Anthony Raju stands as a beacon of hope and advocacy for the voiceless, vulnerable, and marginalised communities, both in India and internationally. He is an internationally accredited Human Rights & Peace Ambassador, a leading criminal and constitutional expert, and a dynamic Supreme Court Advocate whose legal acumen has shaped public discourse, influenced reforms, and ensured access to justice across strata.
With a remarkable career spanning over 15 years, Dr. Raju has championed a wide spectrum of causes—from combating child labour and custodial torture to defending press freedom, women’s rights, and the rights of tribals and refugees. His legal activism is deeply rooted in constitutional morality, social justice, and ethical governance.
As the Chairman of the All India Council of Human Rights, Liberties and Social Justice, he leads one of the most respected human rights movements in India. A United Nations Peace Ambassador, TEDx Speaker, Disaster Management Expert, International Law Faculty, and Humanitarian Strategist, his contributions have been formally recognized with numerous national and international awards and honorary doctorates, including from the International Peace University of Germany and the Universal Academy for Global Peace.
An eloquent public speaker, a prolific writer, and a respected media panelist, Dr. Raju has addressed audiences across continents, advocating for global peace, human development, and constitutional values. His leadership and fieldwork in tribal, rural, and conflict-affected zones stand testimony to his commitment to nation-building and grassroots transformation.
Dr. Raju’s life mission exemplifies the highest ideals of compassion, courage, and constitutionalism, making him not only a legal icon but a true changemaker of our generation.
This citation is respectfully presented in recognition of his enduring legacy and outstanding service to humanity.