Anushri Joshi
In an unparalleled loss to the Indian judiciary, Justice Rajendra Prakash Soni of the Rajasthan High Court succumbed to a cardiac arrest at the age of 60 on Friday, October 11, 2024 . His untimely demise, which occurred shortly after he reported chest discomfort on, has reverberated throughout the legal community, eliciting expressions of profound sorrow and disbelief.
Justice Soni was born to esteemed parents Parmeshwari and Ramchandra Soni, a prominent businessman, whose influence instilled in him the values of diligence and integrity. He embarked upon an illustrious academic trajectory, initially graduating in commerce before attaining his Bachelor of Laws (LLB) degree from the prestigious Jai Narayan Vyas University, Jodhpur. This foundational education laid the groundwork for a distinguished career in the judiciary.
Sworn in as a Judge of the Rajasthan High Court on January 16, 2023, Justice Soni’s judicial odyssey was characterized by a steadfast commitment to the principles of justice and equity. His initial foray into the legal profession was marked by his induction into the Rajasthan Judicial Services, where he demonstrated an unwavering dedication to public service. Throughout his career, he served in various capacities, including as a Civil Judge and Senior Civil Judge across multiple jurisdictions, before ascending to the esteemed position of Chief Judicial Magistrate in Ajmer.
In 2010, following his elevation to the regular District Judge Cadre, Justice Soni continued to leave an indelible mark on the legal landscape. His tenure as Additional District and Sessions Judge encompassed diverse jurisdictions, including Bharatpur, Jaipur City, Jodhpur, Nathdwara, and Udaipur. Justice Soni’s reputation as a judicious and compassionate adjudicator was exemplified by his service as the Presiding Officer of the Motor Accident Claims Tribunal in Udaipur and Rajsamand, as well as his role as Registrar at the Principal Seat of the Rajasthan High Court in Jodhpur.
Justice Soni’s contributions to the judiciary were not merely administrative; they were substantive and transformative. He adjudicated a plethora of significant cases that underscored his profound understanding of legal principles and his ability to navigate the complexities of law. His recent involvement in Prahlad @ Pappu vs. State of Rajasthan[1] is a testament to his judicial acumen. In this case, which pertained to a criminal writ petition concerning parole under the Rajasthan Prisoners Release on Parole Rules, 1958, Justice Soni, in conjunction with Justice Pushpendra Singh Bhati, examined the parole application of a convict afflicted with acute myeloid leukemia. Their ruling underscored the delicate balance between statutory compliance and the humane imperatives of justice, a hallmark of Justice Soni’s judicial philosophy.
Another notable instance of his judicious oversight was evident in Manish Rathore vs. State of Rajasthan[2], where Justice Soni’s analytical prowess came to the fore in resolving intricate legal dilemmas. His decisions in these matters not only showcased his deep-seated commitment to justice but also highlighted his capacity for empathetic adjudication, ensuring that the tenets of fairness and equity were upheld.
The announcement of Justice Soni’s passing has elicited widespread mourning across the legal fraternity. Former Chief Minister of Rajasthan Ashok Gehlot, reflecting the sentiments of many, articulated his sorrow, stating, “The sudden demise of Rajasthan High Court judge Shri Rajendra Prakash Soni is profoundly saddening. I pray for peace to the departed soul and strength to his bereaved family.” Such sentiments echo the collective grief that has enveloped the Rajasthan High Court and the broader legal community.
Justice Soni’s departure marks the loss of a luminary whose legacy will undoubtedly endure. His judgements, underpinned by rigorous intellectual engagement and an unwavering commitment to the rule of law, will continue to inspire future generations of legal practitioners and judges alike. As the Rajasthan High Court navigates this period of mourning, it is imperative to recognize and honor the profound contributions of Justice Rajendra Prakash Soni, whose dedication to justice and equity will forever be enshrined in the annals of judicial history.
[1] (2024 Latest Caselaw 2553 Raj)
[2] [Neutral Citation No. 2024:RJ-JD:36083]