ICJ's Verdict against Israel: The Role of Indian Judge Dalveer Bhandari
Introduction
Justice Dalveer Bhandari's prominence in international jurisprudence has recently been highlighted due to his vote in favour of a ruling against Israel by the International Court of Justice (ICJ). As an Indian judge at the ICJ since 2012, Bhandari's decisions have consistently aligned with upholding international law, reflecting a strong commitment to judicial independence and integrity.
Who is Justice Dalveer Bhandari?
- Historical Background::
- Born on October 1, 1947, Justice Dalveer Bhandari graduated in Humanities and Law before obtaining a Master of Law from Northwestern University, Chicago, USA.
- His early career included working with the Northwestern Legal Assistance Clinic and participating in a UN-sponsored project on criminal justice in India.
- Career in India:
- Bhandari began practising law at the Rajasthan High Court and later moved to the Supreme Court of India in 1977.
- He was appointed to the Delhi High Court in 1991 and subsequently became the Chief Justice of the Maharashtra and Goa High Court in 2004.
- In 2005, he was appointed as a judge of the Supreme Court of India, a position he held until his election to the ICJ in 2012.
- International Court of Justice:
- Bhandari joined the ICJ in 2012 and was re-elected in 2017, a notable achievement for India. His re-election was seen as a significant diplomatic success, endorsed by both the UN General Assembly and the Security Council.
- His tenure at the ICJ is marked by a reputation for upholding the principles of international law and justice.
Recent Rulings and Stance
- Ruling against Israel: Bhandari voted in favour of a ruling that called for a halt to Israel's operations in Rafah. This decision underscores his commitment to addressing humanitarian concerns and upholding international legal standards.
- Provisional Measures against Israel and Russia: Earlier in 2023, he supported provisional measures to prevent genocide against Palestinians in Gaza. In 2022, he voted for provisional measures ordering Russia to suspend its military operations in Ukraine, a ruling passed by a significant majority at the ICJ.
Impact on India’s Standing
- International Reputation: Bhandari’s influential role at the ICJ enhances India's reputation for producing judges of high integrity and capability. His re-election in 2017, facilitated by broad international support, reflects global respect for India's judiciary. His consistent stance on international law reinforces India's image as a nation committed to upholding global legal norms and human rights.
- Diplomatic Success: Bhandari's re-election to the ICJ was considered a diplomatic triumph for India, especially given the withdrawal of the UK candidate. This event underscored India's growing influence and diplomatic skill on the international stage.
- Judicial Independence: The Indian judiciary’s independence is highlighted by Bhandari’s votes on contentious issues involving major powers like Israel and Russia. It demonstrates India's commitment to impartiality and the rule of law, free from geopolitical influences.
Conclusion
To conclude, Justice Dalveer Bhandari's tenure at the ICJ and his recent rulings underscore a steadfast commitment to international law, significantly enhancing India's standing in global judicial and diplomatic arenas. His decisions reflect a broader narrative of India's dedication to justice, human rights, and the principles of international governance.
