In a heartfelt moment during a ceremonial bench on Friday, Chief Justice of India BR Gavai announced that he and Justice AS Oka—who retires tomorrow—have mutually decided not to take up any post-retirement assignments.

“Both of us have already decided that we will not accept any post-retirement assignments, and therefore, we can think of working together (after retirement),” CJI Gavai said in open court.

The Chief Justice delivered a moving tribute to Justice Oka, describing him as a “professor of law and ethics,” whose courtroom stood as a model for principled advocacy. He lauded Oka's vigorous work ethic, his refusal to accept official accommodation, and his passionate involvement in causes such as environmental conservation and legal education.

Highlighting Justice Oka’s dedication to the judiciary, CJI Gavai recalled how he returned to the courtroom just a day after his mother’s funeral. “I will deeply miss his presence in the Supreme Court,” he added.