"Law’s truest measure lies not in its verdicts, but in its vision. In how it shapes lives with fairness, dignity, and compassion.”
His Journey
2006 – 2018
2018 – 2019
2019 – 2020
CNLU, Patna and NLSIU, Bangalore
Justice Ajay Kumar Tripathi belonged to a generation of jurists who viewed the law not as a static set of rules, but as a living shield for the common man. Across the Bar, the Bench, and national public office, his career was defined by a fearless conviction for transparency. He believed that institutions must be built on the twin pillars of accountability and compassion.
Born on November 12, 1957, Justice Tripathi’s intellectual journey began with a distinguished array of alma mater. He completed his schooling from St. Xavier’s School, Bokaro Steel City.
He graduated with distinction in Economics (Hons.) from the reputed Shri Ram College of Commerce (SRCC) in 1978. His leadership qualities emerged early at the Campus Law Centre, Delhi University, where he served as Joint Secretary of the Delhi Law Faculty Students’ Union from 1978-1979. This blend of economic insight and legal rigor earned him the “Distinguished Alumni Award” from SRCC in 2014 – a testament to a lifetime of professional achievement.
Honoured with the Distinguished Alumni Award by SRCC (2014)
His Work
"Service must be purposeful. Purpose must be humane."
In 1981, Justice Tripathi enrolled at the Patna High Court, embarking on a diverse practice spanning Constitutional law, Taxation, and Commercial litigation.
He viewed law as a form of public service that required both intelligence and deep reserves of patience.
His reputation for integrity led him to serve as the Vice President of the Bar Association and as Standing Counsel for the Union of India. As Additional Advocate General for Bihar, he became a formidable voice for the State, representing critical public undertakings like BSNL and BPCL.
Justice Tripathi enrolled as an Advocate with the Patna High Court in 1981. He embarked on a diverse practice spanning Service law, Constitutional law, Taxation, Excise and commercial litigation.
He served as the Vice President of the Patna High Court Bar Association in 1998. He held offices of the Standing Counsel for Union of India and Income Tax Department. He also represented many Public Sector Undertakings including Bharat Sanchar Nigam Limited, Bharat Petroleum Corporation Limited, Inland Waterways Authority of India among others in their important and contentious cases.
He also served as an Additional Advocate General for the State of Bihar, and represented the State before Patna High Court in its litigations.
His Impact
"Consistency is the hallmark of justice"
Justice Tripathi was elevated to the Patna High Court in 2006. He went on to deliver several landmark judgements, which reflected his fearless conviction for transparency, accountability, and compassion towards the common man. He was a strong votary against misuse of public office, which also reflected in his observations and judgements.
He was appointed the Chief Justice of Chhattisgarh High Court in 2018. By virtue of his office he also served as the Chancellor of the Hidayatullah National Law University (HNLU), Raipur.
In 2019, Justice Tripathi took oath as Judicial Member of the First Lokpal of India. He played a pivotal role during the formative period of the institution of Lokpal of India with his innovative ideas and inputs. He authored an uncompromisingly direct and honest Opinion for The Pioneer, six months into his role as an ombudsman, on ensuring accountability.
His Legacy
"Quality legal education is the foundation of a robust legal system."
Justice Tripathi was actively involved in bringing quality legal education to the State of Bihar. He played a key role in the establishment of Chanakya National Law University (CNLU) in Patna, a major institution created to nurture modern legal scholarship in the region. From its early years, he was closely involved in the university’s governance as a member of both its General and Academic Councils, offering strategic insight and support to the emerging national law school at a formative stage of its history.
He also served as a member of the Academic Council of the National Law School of India University (NLSIU), Bangalore. He was a Special Invitee to the Education Committee, Bar Council of India.
As the Chancellor of Hidayatullah National Law University (HNLU), Raipur (2018–19), he engaged directly with students and faculty during a period of institutional challenges, offering support, reassurance, and steadfast focus on the core mission of legal education. His presence and guidance during moments of transition, underscored his belief that legal institutions must be anchored in trust, open dialogue, and an unwavering pursuit of academic excellence.
Through this legacy of institutional stewardship, in his roles as mentor, council member, chancellor, and advocate for quality legal education, Justice Tripathi’s impact helped strengthen institutions that continue to shape legal minds and uphold the promise of justice for all.
Academic procession at Chanakya National Law University, Patna
Beyond the Gavel
Justice Tripathi was a keen and ardent golfer. He was a patron of the Patna Golf Club, which was established in 1916. He served as the President of Patna Golf Club between the years 2007-2009. Justice Tripathi, both participated and organised several golf tournaments, and four-balled with several eminent golfers and went on to win many amateur tournaments. On invitation from the Governor of Jammu and Kashmir, he led Bihar at the inter-state golf tournaments at the Royal Springs Golf Club of Jammu and Kashmir.
Those close to him, knew his love for reading and music.
His family, friends and members of Foundation, deeply mourn his loss; but his spirit of simplicity, love, fairness and equality for all in the eyes of the law will live on forever.
