Renowned Jurist and Trailblazer, Justice Fathima Beevi, Passes Away at 96
India mourns the loss of Justice Fathima Beevi, its first female Supreme Court judge, who peacefully passed away at the age of 96 on Thursday. A distinguished legal luminary, she carved an indelible legacy as a trailblazer in the field of law.
Beginning her career in 1950, Justice Beevi ascended through the ranks of the Kerala Subordinate Judicial Services, leaving an indomitable mark as a Munsiff, Subordinate Judge, Chief Judicial Magistrate, and District and Sessions Judge. In 1983, she made history as the first woman appointed as a High Court Judge, further breaking barriers in 1989 as India’s inaugural female Supreme Court Justice.
A pioneer in more than one aspect, Justice Beevi was also the first Muslim woman to hold a position in the higher judiciary. Beyond her judicial contributions, she served as the Governor of Tamil Nadu post her retirement, leaving an indelible mark on the state’s governance.
Kerala’s Health Minister Veena George expressed profound grief, lauding Justice Beevi’s courage and citing her numerous accolades, including the Bharat Jyoti Award and the US-India Business Council Lifetime Achievement Award.
Justice Fathima Beevi’s life exemplified resilience, willpower, and purpose, inspiring generations to come.
