Abdul Ghafoor Noorani, a well-known public intellectual in India, passed away in Mumbai following a protracted illness brought on by complications from a fall. He was ninety-four years old.
For more than 60 years, the well-known attorney, constitutional specialist, and prolific writer left a lasting impact on Indian legal academia and political conversation.
Mr. Noorani, who was well regarded for his in-depth examination of constitutional and human rights concerns, will be especially missed by the people of Jammu and Kashmir, for whom he wrote a great deal of books and articles that were frequently mentioned.
However, his unstable temperament made friends and admirers who tended to tread carefully around his frequently upset moods.
Reportedly, he declined a speech invitation from Kashmir University in Srinagar on the grounds that the vice chancellor was not wearing socks.
“Noorani sahab was an enduring friend and supporter of the people of J&K and had a profound and critical understanding of the Kashmir issue,” Mirwaiz Umar Farooq said in a condolence statement from Srinagar. Kashmir has lost a significant supporter of its goals after his passing.
Mr. Noorani started his legal career at the Bombay High Court in 1953 after being born in Bombay (now Mumbai) in 1930.
Despite being a practicing attorney, Mr. Noorani spent a lot of time writing about political, legal, and historical subjects.
His keen mind and extensive understanding of constitutional issues made him a highly sought-after analyst on Indian politics and legal concerns.
Mr. Noorani was well-known for his ardent support of secularism and civil freedoms. He was an outspoken opponent of legislation, such as those limiting freedom of expression and preventing preventative detention, that he felt violated fundamental rights.
He was a well-respected participant in discussions on judicial accountability and reform thanks to his legal knowledge.
Despite never having a formal position, Mr. Noorani’s views were respected in the legal and political communities.
His views were frequently consulted on constitutional issues, and scholarly publications as well as Supreme Court rulings have referenced his writings.
