‘Nyay Setu’ Released as Former CJI Chandrachud Felicitates Advocate Suresh Pakale in Pune
Pune, 21st March 2026: Former Chief Justice of India DY Chandrachud said the work of senior legal expert Suresh Pakale reflects a transformative force in society, as he has consistently worked to secure justice for marginalised sections without treating money as the ultimate goal of his profession.
Chandrachud made the remarks while speaking at a felicitation ceremony organised by the Teachers Association for Non-Aided Polytechnics (TAFNAP) in Pune on Friday. Pakale was honoured with a Lifetime Achievement Award in recognition of his decades-long contribution to providing legal support to distressed teachers, workers and street vendors.
The award was presented by Chandrachud during the event held at the Sheraton Grand Pune Bund Garden Hotel. Subodh Tiwari, honorary secretary and executive officer of Kaivalyadham in Lonavala, presided over the function. TAFNAP president Rajendra Dhawale and secretary Shridhar Vaidya were also present on the dais.
During the ceremony, Pakale was felicitated with a traditional Puneri pagdi, shawl, coconut and a citation. A special commemorative publication titled ‘Nyay Setu’, highlighting Pakale’s life and work, was also released on the occasion. Aruna Pakale was honoured during the programme as well.
Speaking at the event, Chandrachud said he has shared a friendship with Pakale for nearly four decades and described the felicitation as a deeply personal moment. He noted that his association with Pakale influenced his own outlook towards life and public service.
Responding to the honour, Pakale credited Chandrachud for shaping his professional journey and said the former Chief Justice had extended support at crucial moments when he was working to secure justice for people whose voices were often unheard in society.
Pakale said the recognition was not a personal achievement but a tribute to the mentors who guided him and the thousands of people who trusted him during his legal career. He added that lawyers must remember they are not merely arguing cases but safeguarding human dignity through the justice system.
“I chose to stand with the needy rather than pursue power when I entered the legal profession, and that gives me satisfaction,” Pakale said, reflecting on his four-decade career. He also expressed gratitude towards the judiciary, calling it a “great institution of justice” and emphasising the need for conscience and wisdom to remain alive in the temple of justice.
In his presidential address, Subodh Tiwari said Pakale’s personality reflects enthusiasm, positivity, courage, intellectual curiosity and determination. These qualities, he said, enabled Pakale to play a significant role in helping oppressed and neglected sections of society secure justice.
Earlier, in the introductory remarks, Shridhar Vaidya highlighted Pakale’s legal career spanning more than 40 years, during which he helped thousands of teachers, non-teaching staff, Mathadi workers, security guards, Zilla Parishad employees, farmers and other underprivileged citizens obtain legal relief.
Messages of goodwill from Chief Justice of India Bhushan Gavai and senior jurist Virendra Saraf were read out during the programme. The event was anchored by Madhuri Kulkarni, while Asmita Kulkarni presented the messages from dignitaries.
