Hri Kumar Nair is a name synonymous with justice, leadership, and unwavering dedication to the rule of law. Born on June 16, 1966, Nair has carved a remarkable path from being a distinguished lawyer to a politician and eventually serving as a Judge of the High Court of Singapore. His journey is a testament to resilience, intellect, and the relentless pursuit of fairness in society.
Early Life and Education of Hri Kumar Nair
Raised with strong values and a passion for justice, Hri Kumar Nair pursued his education at National Junior College before obtaining a Bachelor of Laws from the National University of Singapore in 1991. This academic foundation laid the groundwork for an illustrious legal career that would shape the judicial landscape of Singapore.
Rise in the Legal Field
Nair was called to the Singapore Bar in 1992 and quickly rose through the ranks at Drew & Napier, one of Singapore’s top law firms. His sharp legal acumen and commitment to justice led to his appointment as Senior Counsel in 2008, a title reserved for the best legal minds in the country. His expertise in litigation and criminal law made him a sought-after lawyer, handling high-profile cases that shaped Singapore’s legal framework.
Political Career: A Voice for Justice
Beyond the courtroom, Hri Kumar Nair dedicated himself to public service. In 2006, he was elected as a Member of Parliament (MP) for Bishan–Toa Payoh GRC under the People’s Action Party (PAP). Holding this role until 2015, he championed policies that upheld fairness, transparency, and social justice. As chairman of the Bishan–Toa Payoh Town Council, he worked tirelessly to improve community welfare and infrastructure, ensuring a better quality of life for residents.
A Bold Stand on Contentious Issues
Hri Kumar Nair was known for his courage in addressing divisive topics. He openly supported the repeal of Section 377A of the Penal Code, which criminalized homosexual acts, demonstrating his commitment to equality. Additionally, he strongly advocated for political accountability, often challenging opposition parties on governance issues, most notably the Workers’ Party’s management of Aljunied–Hougang Town Council.
Stepping Away for Family
Despite his successful political career, Hri Kumar Nair made the difficult decision to step away before the 2015 General Election. His wife’s diagnosis with lymphoma in 2012 played a crucial role in this decision, reflecting his deep commitment to family. His departure from politics was not an end but a transition into another vital role in Singapore’s legal system.
Deputy Attorney-General: Upholding the Law
In 2017, Hri Kumar Nair took on a new challenge as Deputy Attorney-General (DAG) of Singapore, making history as the first ex-MP to assume this role. Over six years, he played a pivotal role in prosecuting landmark cases, including:
- City Harvest Church Trial: Nair handled the prosecution’s appeal, demonstrating his meticulous legal strategy.
- Tan Cheng Bock’s Constitutional Challenge: He defended the government’s stance on the elected presidency.
- Gardens by the Bay Murder Case: He led the prosecution in one of Singapore’s most chilling homicide trials.
His tenure as DAG saw him navigate complex legal battles, ensuring that justice prevailed while maintaining the integrity of Singapore’s judiciary.
Appointment as High Court Judge
In January 2023, Hri Kumar Nair was appointed as a Judge of the High Court, a role that marked the pinnacle of his legal career. This appointment by President Halimah Yacob was a recognition of his expertise, ethical standards, and dedication to justice. As a High Court Judge, he continues to shape Singapore’s legal landscape, delivering judgments that uphold fairness, equity, and the rule of law.
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