On Justice Bela Trivedi's last working day at the Supreme Court, Chief Justice of India (CJI) BR Gavai and Justice AG Masih expressed disappointment over the absence of an official farewell ceremony, traditionally hosted by lawyers' bodies for retiring judges.

The Supreme Court Bar Association (SCBA) and the Supreme Court Advocates-on-Record Association (SCAORA) usually organise farewell events to honour outgoing judges. However, no such programme was announced for Justice Trivedi, whose tenure at the apex court concluded on Friday.

This omission did not go unnoticed. During the ceremonial bench proceedings, CJI Gavai openly criticised the decision, while commending SCBA President Kapil Sibal and Vice-President Rachana Srivastava for attending the farewell session despite the associations' stance.

“I am grateful to Mr. Sibal and Ms. Srivastava for being here. But I must openly deprecate the stand taken by the Association. I believe in calling a spade a spade—such an occasion should not have been disregarded. The presence of a full courtroom today speaks volumes—she is a very, very good judge. Judges may differ in style, but that should never be a reason to skip a tradition like today's farewell,” said the CJI.

He went on to praise Justice Trivedi for her firmness, fearlessness, hard work, integrity, and spirituality.

Justice AG Masih also voiced regret over the bar associations' decision, echoing the CJI's sentiment on the importance of preserving institutional traditions.

"Strangely enough, and as already stated by the Chief, I probably shouldn't be saying this, but traditions are meant to be followed and respected. Good traditions should continue. I wish sister Trivedi all success in life—she will no doubt serve as a mentor and guide to many," he said.

Justice Trivedi's judicial career was marked by diligence and dedication, qualities that were warmly acknowledged by the bench and members of the bar present at the occasion.