Justice K.S. Puttaswamy, a former judge of the Karnataka High Court, passed away on Monday at the age of 98 at his home in Bengaluru. His death marks the loss of a prominent figure who played a crucial role in recognizing the right to privacy as a fundamental right in India.
A Lifelong Commitment to Justice
Justice Puttaswamy was born in 1926 and began his legal career after enrolling as an advocate in 1952. His dedication and skill led to his appointment as a judge of the Karnataka High Court in November 1977, a position he held with integrity until his retirement in 1986. Throughout his judicial career, he was respected for his unwavering commitment to justice and the rule of law.
Even after retiring, Justice Puttaswamy remained active in the legal community. He served as vice-chairman of the Central Administrative Tribunal's Bangalore Bench and as chairman of the Andhra Pradesh Administrative Tribunal. He also chaired the Backward Classes Commission, where he contributed to significant administrative reforms.
A Landmark Case for Privacy
Justice Puttaswamy is perhaps best known for leading the case against the constitutional validity of the Aadhaar scheme in 2012. His petition raised serious concerns about privacy violations and the mandatory nature of the Aadhaar identification system introduced by the central government.
The Supreme Court's ruling on the case was groundbreaking. While the court did not invalidate the Aadhaar scheme, it recognized the right to privacy as a fundamental right under Article 21 of the Indian Constitution. This historic decision has had a lasting impact, shaping various laws and policies related to individual privacy and data protection.
Justice Puttaswamy's tireless advocacy for privacy rights has left a profound legacy in Indian law. His efforts highlighted the need to protect civil liberties in an age where personal data is increasingly vulnerable. By challenging the Aadhaar scheme, he not only brought attention to potential government overreach but also emphasized the importance of safeguarding individual rights.
Beyond his legal achievements, Justice Puttaswamy inspired countless lawyers and judges to uphold the sanctity of individual rights, ensuring his influence will be felt for years to come.
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