I had the good fortune to interact closely with Madam Droupadi Murmu when she was the Governor of Jharkhand. As I look back on my tenure as the Chief Justice of Jharkhand High Court, one memorable and significant moment stands out from the many when I administered the oath of office to Madam Droupadi Murmu as the Governor of Jharkhand on May 18, 2015. As I stood before her reading the solemn words of the oath, I was struck by her calm and composed bearing and behaviour. I still cherish that day.
This historical moment was the beginning of a professional relationship that soon transfigured into an association of deep mutual respect. I was deeply touched not only by the simplicity of her personality but also by her strong work ethics. She had a powerful aura of humility and determination. It was evident that she was deeply committed to serving the people of Jharkhand.
One particular event that remains deeply etched in my memory is the India Legal Research Foundation’s Jharkhand Conclave, where both Madam Droupadi Murmu and I were invited to speak. This gathering, held in 2016, was a platform to discuss the state’s development, challenges, and future prospects. During her address, Madam Murmu spoke eloquently and emotionally about her vision for Jharkhand. She spoke about increasing access to justice for the downtrodden. She urged the government and the judiciary to reach out to the marginalized as she knew their pain, being one of them not so far ago. As she made an impassioned
plea for helping the underprivileged and the poor, her words struck a chord with everyone present.
As per the vision of Madam Murmu, we at Jharkhand High Court had taken initiatives for dispute resolution and many cases were resolved through ADR. We had also opened our legal aid clinics in all the 24 jails of the State providing relief to undertrials, many of whom were poor tribals.
During my tenure as Chief Justice of Jharkhand High Court, I found that her rapport with the villagers was heartwarming. She visited the remotest villages in Jharkhand to meet local tribal communities, spoke with them in their native language, understanding their problems and offering practical solutions. This strengthened my admiration for her as a leader who was deeply connected and committed to the welfare of her people. Her tenure as a governor of Jharkhand left an indelible mark on the State and its people. Her legacy continues to inspire many, including myself to strive for excellence and serve with humility and compassion.
The humbleness and spiritual nature of Madam Murmu was revealed to me when she graciously consented to be part of one religious function organized at my official residence at Ranchi. In Madam Droupadi Murmu’s personality, several qualities shine out. Though she held a ceremonial office, her determination to make a difference in lives of people is remarkable. Her humility is one of her endearing traits, which she has managed to preserve despite holding many high offices. She never cut herself from her roots and that is her greatness. She has an inborn ability to connect with people from all walks of life.
Madam Murmu’s resilience and determination are also noteworthy. She came from a modest and humble family background, faced personal tribulations which would have pulverized many but she emerged Sphinx-like from her ordeals to become ever-so resilient and strong; yet never lost her compassion. She bore her crosses with remarkable stoicism and strength.
Madam Droupadi Murmu’s journey from a small tribal village of Odisha to the Governor’s office and then to President of India is a strong testimony of her indomitable spirit and focused commitment to people at large, especially the underprivileged. Her life and work have redefined leadership paradigm. She has proved that true leadership is not about holding a position of power but about making a positive impact on the lives of others.
Madam Droupadi Murmu remains an exemplary model of for generations to come, embodying the values of integrity, empathy, and resilience.