Justice M.K. Hanjura’s life and career are a symphony of dedication, resilience, and unwavering commitment to justice
Justice M.K. Hanjura, a name synonymous with justice, integrity, and the relentless pursuit of truth, draws his lineage from the tranquil village of Hanjura. Nestled within the serene landscapes of District Budgam, Tehsil Chadoora, this quaint village is not just a geographical entity but a repository of rich heritage and deep-rooted traditions. It is in this soil, fertile with tales of valor and wisdom, that the seeds of Justice Hanjura’s illustrious journey were sown.
Hanjura, a name that reverberates with a legacy of honor and sagacity, cradles the Bhat lineage—a lineage that has, over generations, contributed significantly to the cultural and intellectual fabric of the region. It is here, in this idyllic setting, that Justice Hanjura’s story begins. A story that, much like a river, winds its way through the undulating valleys of time, shaped and molded by the enduring forces of education, perseverance, and an unyielding commitment to justice.
Born on a crisp autumn day, October 22, 1956 Justice Hanjura’s early life was a tapestry woven with threads of simplicity and earnest aspiration. His formative years were spent in the modest confines of Primary School Hanjura, where the seeds of knowledge were sown by diligent teachers who recognized the spark of brilliance in the young Bhat. As destiny would have it, the pursuit of education soon led him to Karan Nagar, where the National High School became the next stepping stone in his academic journey.
Karan Nagar, a bustling locality where tradition met modernity, was not just a place of learning but a testament to his grandfather’s visionary zeal. In 1954, his grandfather, a man ahead of his time, constructed the first house in Karan Nagar, laying a foundation that would support the educational aspirations of his children and grandchildren. This act of foresight was a beacon of enlightenment, guiding Justice Hanjura towards the path of legal scholarship.
The young Hanjura, imbued with the values of diligence and resilience inherited from his forebears, embarked on his academic journey at the Government Degree College Bemina, a pilgrimage that culminated in 1976. The hallowed corridors of this institution resonated with the footsteps of a young man destined for greatness. His quest for knowledge and justice led him to the University of Kashmir, where he immersed himself in the intricate study of law. In 1979, he emerged with an LL.B (Hons), armed with a profound understanding of justice and jurisprudence.
Yet, Hanjura’s academic pursuits were not his sole passion. His ardor for table tennis thrived alongside his scholarly endeavors. He actively engaged in the sport during his university years, representing the University of Kashmir at the National Inter-University Table Tennis Tournament in Siliguri. This confluence of intellectual and athletic prowess underscored his multifaceted persona, a testament to his unwavering dedication and boundless spirit.
The nascent lawyer, brimming with youthful zeal and a profound sense of justice, embarked on his legal practice in the District Courts of Budgam. His early years as an advocate were marked by a fervent dedication to the cause of justice, a dedication that did not go unnoticed. The turning point came on January 19, 1987, when he was appointed as a Munsiff, marking the beginning of a judicial odyssey that would span decades and leave an indelible mark on the annals of legal history.
In 2003, Justice Hanjura ascended to the position of District Judge, a role that saw him preside over some of the most pivotal cases in the region. As the Special Judge Anti-Corruption for Jammu Province, his tenure was distinguished by landmark judgments, including the infamous Birpur Land Scandal, where his unyielding pursuit of truth and justice shone like a lighthouse amidst the stormy seas of corruption. His judgments, characterized by meticulous reasoning and unwavering fairness, garnered respect and admiration, solidifying his reputation as a paragon of judicial excellence.
Justice Hanjura’s judicial journey was not confined to the trial courts alone. His tenure saw him scale the heights of judicial administration, serving twice as the Registrar General of the High Court of Jammu and Kashmir. In this role, he was the linchpin of the judicial machinery, ensuring the seamless functioning of the court system. His administrative acumen was further recognized when he served as the Registrar in the Supreme Court of India for over three years, a period during which his contributions to the apex court were both profound and far-reaching.
The zenith of his illustrious career came with his appointment as a Judge of the High Court on June 6, 2017. As a High Court Judge, Justice Hanjura’s judgments reflected a deep understanding of the law, tempered with compassion and an unwavering commitment to justice. His pen authored over five hundred judgments, each a testament to his legal acumen and his relentless quest for justice. These judgments, reported in various reputed law journals, continue to serve as guiding lights for the legal fraternity.
In 2016, Justice Hanjura’s expertise was sought beyond the traditional courtroom, leading to his appointment as a member (Judicial) of the National Company Law Tribunal. Although his tenure was brief, lasting only six months, his impact was significant, bringing clarity and justice to complex corporate disputes. His resignation from this post on February 20, 2017, marked yet another transition in his multifaceted career, as he assumed the charge of the Food Safety Appellate Tribunal, Jammu, on February 21, 2017. His tenure here, though short-lived, was marked by his characteristic fairness and dedication to upholding the rule of law.
Justice Hanjura’s journey reached a crescendo when he took the oath as a Judge of the High Court of Jammu and Kashmir, serving with distinction until October 21, 2018. His judicial philosophy, rooted in the principles of fairness, equity, and justice, was reflected in every judgment he delivered. His legacy as a judge is immortalized in the countless judgments he authored, each a beacon of justice and a testament to his legal brilliance.
In January 2019, Justice Hanjura was appointed as the Chairperson of the first-ever Law Commission of Jammu and Kashmir, a role that underscored his profound impact on the legal landscape of the region. His tenure until October 2020 was marked by significant contributions to legal reform, ensuring that the justice system evolved to meet the needs of a changing society.
Justice M.K. Hanjura’s life and career are a symphony of dedication, resilience, and unwavering commitment to justice. His journey, from the humble village of Hanjura to the esteemed corridors of the judiciary, is a testament to the transformative power of education and the enduring spirit of justice. Through his judgments, administrative roles, and contributions to legal reform, Justice Hanjura has left an indelible legacy, inspiring generations to come. His story is not just that of a judge, but of a guardian of justice, whose life and work continue to illuminate the path of righteousness and truth.
(Author is a columnist and can be reached at: [email protected])
