Senior Advocate Dushyant Dave quits legal profession after 48 years
New Delhi, July 14, 2025 — One of India’s most prominent legal voices, Senior Advocate Dushyant Dave, has formally announced his retirement from the legal profession after serving the Indian judiciary with distinction for nearly five decades. At the age of 70, Dave exits the courtroom, leaving behind a legacy marked by unwavering integrity, constitutional advocacy, and fearless courtroom arguments.
The news of his retirement broke when Dave sent a simple but poignant WhatsApp message to a group of colleagues, stating, “After having spent 48 glorious years at the Bar, I have decided to quit the profession of law.” Though his message was brief, its impact reverberated throughout the legal community.
A Career That Shaped Indian Constitutional Law
Dave began his legal journey in the late 1970s in Gujarat, moving to Delhi in the mid-1980s to establish his practice in the Supreme Court of India. In 1998, he was designated as a Senior Advocate, a recognition that cemented his role among the top legal minds in the country.
Known for his deep commitment to constitutional values, Dave represented clients in some of the most high-stakes litigation cases in India’s recent history. Whether it was fighting for the independence of the judiciary, defending civil liberties, or advocating for marginalized communities, Dave consistently stood at the frontlines.
His courtroom presence was marked by sharp intellect, relentless questioning, and a commanding oratory that earned him both respect and fear in legal circles. He didn’t shy away from criticizing the executive, nor did he hold back when pointing out lapses in the judiciary itself — a rare courage in India’s legal landscape.
An Outspoken Defender of Democratic Principles
Throughout his career, Dushyant Dave stood firmly as a vocal critic of judicial overreach and executive interference. He often raised alarms about the erosion of constitutional morality, the weakening of institutions, and the silence of the legal fraternity during key moments of national importance.
One of his most memorable public roles was his tenure as the President of the Supreme Court Bar Association (SCBA) — a position he held thrice (2014, 2019, and 2020). During his terms, he was often seen challenging the establishment and advocating for greater transparency and accountability within the judiciary.
A Thoughtful Exit, Not a Forced One
Interestingly, Dave’s retirement has not come due to ill health, political pressure, or disillusionment. In his own words, the decision was personal and deliberate. “I am happy I am doing it by choice,” he told journalists. “It’s time for young people to come forward. I want to make space for them.”
He emphasized that there was no single incident that pushed him to retire — no last straw. Instead, he simply felt that the time was right. “I leave the profession with a sense of pride and happiness,” he said, adding that he wanted to contribute to society in other ways beyond the courtroom.
A New Chapter: Social Work, Travel, and Teaching
Far from planning a quiet retreat, Dave has outlined his post-retirement plans with clarity. He wishes to focus on social initiatives, particularly a rural development project in a taluk near Baroda, Gujarat, where he hopes to build model housing, encourage agriculture, and foster education.
He also looks forward to spending more time with family, especially his grandchildren, traveling, and perhaps writing and teaching. However, he made it clear that he will not be taking on any legal consultations, arbitration, or court appearances in the future.
Tributes Pour In From the Legal Community
Following his announcement, members of the bar and judiciary paid tribute to Dave’s formidable contribution. Senior Advocate Sunil Fernandes called him a “warrior for justice,” while others referred to him as a “pillar of constitutional law.”
Lawyers who trained under him or appeared against him in court recalled his sharp arguments, fearless stance, and sense of fairness. Many younger lawyers saw him as a mentor who taught them not just how to argue, but how to stand for something.
A Voice That Will Echo Beyond the Courtroom
In an era where silence and conformity often dominate public discourse, Dushyant Dave was a beacon of resistance, an unapologetic advocate for the truth, and a defender of civil rights. His absence from the courtroom will be deeply felt — not just in legal arguments, but in the moral and ethical compass he brought to the Bar.
While the courtroom may have lost one of its brightest minds, India’s civic landscape will hopefully continue to benefit from his insight, integrity, and activism.
Conclusion
As Senior Advocate Dushyant Dave hangs up his black coat and white band, the Indian legal system says goodbye to a fearless crusader who spent nearly half a century fighting for justice. His retirement is not just the end of a career, but the closing of a critical chapter in Indian legal history — one marked by bold advocacy, principled dissent, and an unyielding commitment to the Constitution.
Though he has stepped away from active legal practice, his voice will likely continue to influence public debate, mentor future legal minds, and inspire the next generation of constitutional warriors.
