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Retiring MP High Court Justice Avanindra Kumar Singh Donates ₹1.01 Crore to PM CARES
In a remarkable display of selflessness, Justice Avanindra Kumar Singh of the , who retired on [date not specified], has announced that he will donate his entire General Provident Fund (GPF) savings—amounting to approximately ₹1.01 crore—to the . Additionally, he and his wife have pledged their bodies to a medical college for scientific research after their deaths. This extraordinary gesture has resonated deeply within the legal fraternity and beyond, highlighting the enduring commitment of a judicial officer to public service even after his formal career concludes.
A Selfless Act on Retirement
Speaking during a farewell function held in his honour, Justice Singh revealed his decision with characteristic humility.
"As per office calculation, I will be receiving about 1 crore 1 lakh from my GPF account, which I pledge before you all to donate the entire amount as soon as I receive for the nation building in Prime Minister CARES fund. And this step is the beginning and not the end,"
he said. The announcement was met with applause and admiration from colleagues, lawyers, and court staff present at the ceremony.
Justice Singh's decision is particularly noteworthy because GPF savings represent the accumulated retirement corpus of a government employee—funds that most retirees rely upon for their post-service livelihood. By choosing to forgo this financial security in favour of contributing to a national relief fund, Justice Singh has set a powerful precedent for judicial officers and civil servants alike.
A Judge's Philosophy of Service
Reflecting on his retirement, Justice Singh conveyed that he intended to continue working in a different capacity.
"After retirement today, I will begin a new chapter in my life, and I will always continue to work on a new platform. I believe that we serve the Lord not only by worshipping Him, but also by taking care of all things big and small God has created on this earth,"
he remarked.
This philosophical outlook underscores the judge's deep-rooted belief in service beyond the courtroom. During his tenure on the , Justice Singh was known for his meticulous judgments and empathetic approach, often emphasising and societal welfare. His retirement act aligns seamlessly with his judicial philosophy—one that views the law as a tool for social betterment rather than mere adjudication.
Donation of Body for Medical Research
In a further demonstration of his commitment to societal contribution, Justice Singh also disclosed that he and his wife have pledged their bodies to a medical college for scientific purposes.
"To give to this society on the principle that 'अपने लिए जिये तो कह जिये' (If one lives only for oneself, can one really say that one has lived?), my wife and I have pledged and registered two days before to the medical college after our death, our bodies, so that it can be used for scientific purpose,"
he explained.
Body donation for medical research is a rare but growing practice in India, often hindered by social taboos and religious beliefs. By making this pledge publicly, Justice Singh not only promotes the advancement of medical science but also encourages others to overcome cultural reservations. The registration of the pledge just two days before his retirement adds a poignant sense of urgency and finality to his decision.
Implications for the Legal Community
Justice Singh's actions carry significant implications for the legal profession. Judges are often perceived as being detached from everyday societal struggles, but his donation challenges that stereotype. The act may inspire other members of the judiciary—both sitting and retired—to consider similar philanthropic gestures, thereby strengthening the bond between the judiciary and the public it serves.
Moreover, the decision to donate GPF savings directly to the PM CARES Fund highlights the judge's trust in a government-led initiative for disaster relief and national development. While some may debate the merits of donating to a specific fund, Justice Singh's choice underscores the importance of contributing to the larger good without expectation of personal gain.
The legal community has responded with widespread praise. Senior advocates and fellow judges have commended his generosity, noting that it sets a high moral standard for public servants. The is reportedly considering a resolution to honour his contribution, and several law schools have expressed interest in inviting him to speak about his philosophy of service.
Broader Impact on Public Service Ethics
Justice Singh's gesture also invites a broader discussion on the ethics of public service. In a country where corruption and self-interest sometimes tarnish the image of public institutions, his act serves as a beacon of integrity. It reminds legal professionals that their duty extends beyond courtrooms and case files—to actively participate in nation-building and humanitarian efforts.
The donation of one's body for research is a particularly powerful statement. It challenges the conventional notion of legacy and encourages a culture of giving that transcends material wealth. For legal professionals who deal with end-of-life issues, inheritance disputes, and medical ethics, Justice Singh's example provides a real-world case study of altruism and forward-thinking.
Conclusion
Justice Avanindra Kumar Singh's retirement marks not an end but a beginning—a new chapter defined by continued service to the nation. By donating his entire GPF savings to the PM CARES Fund and pledging his body for medical research, he has demonstrated that the true measure of a judge's legacy lies not in the number of cases decided, but in the lives touched and the values upheld.
His actions will undoubtedly resonate within the legal fraternity for years to come, serving as a moral compass for judges, lawyers, and all public servants. As he steps away from the bench, Justice Singh leaves behind a profound lesson: that the spirit of service knows no retirement.
