Soli was a champion of free speech and wore many hats
argued the case before the bench of justices J. Chelameswar and Rohinton Nariman. Shreya won the landmark case for free speech and expression. This case was one of the many leading cases Soli argued on freedom of expression guaranteed under Article 19(1) (a) of our Constitution.
During his illustrious career, Soli served as the Solicitor General for India and Attorney General for India. In the United Nations, he served as Special Rapporteur to the UN Human Rights Commission and as a member of the UN Sub Commission on Prevention of Discrimination and Protection of Minorities. I have also served the United Nations in different capacities.
In 2002, the country’s second highest civilian honour, Padma Vibhushan, was conferred on Soli for his contribution to the continued service of justice including his vociferous defence of the freedom of expression and protection of human rights.
As the President of the India International Centre (IIC), he guided the institution in its activities for a long time, particularly in the areas of culture and education, introduction of cuisines from different parts of the country and world. Under him, IIC opened its doors to younger members. I remember Soli would go to IIC everyday for lunch after the morning session, and return to Supreme Court for the afternoon matters.
Soli was a man of many passions. He was a great lover of music, particularly jazz music. He introduced the jazz festival in Delhi. Soli could always be spotted at the Jazz festival singing and dancing with the musicians.
Soli reached great heights in his life and career but above all he was a very affectionate and generous human being. Whenever I pass by the beautiful Lotus Temple in Delhi, I am reminded of his wife, Zena, who’s dedication to Soli is inspirational. A champion of human rights, non-violence in her own right, having been instrumental in the setting of the Baha’i faith in India.
Soli leaves behind his daughter, Zia, a well-known corporate lawyer, founder and partner at AZB & Partners, one of the leading law firms in India. Jehangir is a reputed doctor. Hormazd is the editor of India’s leading automobile magazine, Autocar India. And his many grandchildren.
I last met Soli at his 91st birthday celebrations at his beloved IIC on 9th March, 2021 when he also released his memoirs “Down Memory Lane”. After Soli spoke, he invited me to speak. He was surrounded with love and joy of his friends and family. It would have been the last time for many of us to have met Soli.
It came as a shock to learn of his passing due to Covid yesterday. To me, Soli will always be 91 not out.
Soli will be remembered in our memories, through Zena, Zia, Jehangir, Hormazd, his grandchildren, and in the many battles he fought and won for us.
(Murlidhar C Bhandare is a senior advocate, former governor and Member of Parliament)