If we can describe his lordship Justice Abhay Shreeniwas Oka in one word, it is “Kayakayogi” as perceived by 12th century social reformer Basavanna.
This quality is reflected both in his lordship’s judicial and administrative work. Justice Oka worked tirelessly without showing a semblance of displeasure at anything or anyone.
The temperament exhibited by his lordship can only be matched by the discipline in court proceedings throughout the day.
Justice Oka’s contribution during pandemic is beyond one’s comprehension. For more than 400 days, directions were issued which were comprehensive and painstaking. There was systematic and meticulous monitoring by Justice Oka heading the bench. What is more, the proceedings were almost like interactive sessions between all stakeholders, resulting in best solutions being arrived at and implemented by complying with the directions issued.
From migrant issue to vaccine to oxygen and food relief, the entire pandemic scenario was meticulously monitored. Not a single lapse on the part of the governmental machinery was left unnoticed.
Justice Oka exhibited inborn simplicity by requesting the attender to cut ribbon to open new court complex in Chikkaballapur. This incident won the hearts of 6 crores Kannadigas across the State for sure.
When the court staff returned to work after covid treatment, Justice Oka extended warm welcome with roses. A leader is one who mingles with the most common people. Justice Oka demonstrated this leadership quality ofcourse without showing slightest proudness in it.
We lost many learned advocates due to covid. More than 300 advocates lost their life. Justice Oka arranged condolence meet for the departed souls thus showing solidarity with the Bar.
There was not a single moment where emotions were flared up or unpalatable words were used during the court proceedings. It was a proud moment for every junior lawyer to appear before Justice Oka and gain patient hearing.
The government can be guided in the right direction to achieve the noble ideals of the Constitution of India only by right supervision by the judiciary. This is proven by Justice Oka. Through various orders in public interest litigation, Justice Oka guided the governmental machinery to achieve part IV of the Constitution of India.
In the field of technological advancement, the role and contribution of Justice Oka is noteworthy. After Gujrat High Court, Karnataka High Court started streaming court proceedings live via YouTube. The entire judicial system was overhauled technologically under the able supervision of Justice Oka.
The able and humane monitoring of migrant issue during Covid pandemic earned biggest applaud from the living legend Shri. Fali Nariman who said “I salute the judges of the Karnataka High Court for their humanitarian approach. Like Abou Ben Adhem (in the poem by James Hunt) “May their tribe increase!”.
Karnataka High Court is a ‘launching pad’ for many great judges who adorned the Supreme Court of India. It is a proud moment for us; we are sending a ‘Kayakayogi’ to enrich the highest seat of Judiciary.
Daksha Legal 