Over 45 years ago, the union government, led by the then Prime Minister Indira Gandhi, imposed emergency in the country, a period dubbed as the darkest hours of democracy. Amid the shadows emerged a story of courage and enforcement of fundamental rights by Justice Rajendra Nath Aggarwal.
The former Chief Justice of the Delhi High Court breathed his last breath on the morning of 7th June 2021 Monday, at the age of 95. Those who know him recall how he strived to prevent the judiciary from submitting to an absolutist government.
According to available information, journalist Kuldip Nayar was arrested under the Maintenance of Internal Security Act- an action alleged by his wife before the Delhi High Court.
The matter was placed before the Bench of justice S. Rangarajan and Justice Aggarwal. It ordered his release, Making it clear that the right to writ of habeas corpus had not been suspended. Both the judges were punished, Justice Rangarajan was transferred to Sikkim and Justice Aggarwals term as an additional judge was not extended.
Post Emergency, Justice Aggarwal was elevated to Delhi High Court and his seniority was restored.
