Kalpana Hasmukhrai Rawal, born on January 15, 1946, in Bhuj, India, has carved a remarkable path in the legal profession, becoming a symbol of resilience, dedication, and trailblazing achievements. As a Kenyan-Asian lawyer and the former Deputy Chief Justice and Vice President of the Supreme Court of Kenya, her journey is a testament to her unwavering commitment to justice and equality.
Early Life and Education of Kalpana Hasmukhrai Rawal
Born to Umangilal (U.J.) and Anuben Bhatt in a conservative Indian society, Kalpana Rawal’s early life was marked by her family’s progressive attitude towards education. Despite societal norms that often downplayed the significance of daughters, her parents ensured that she and her four sisters received the best education possible. This foundation set the stage for Kalpana’s future achievements.
Kalpana Hasmukhrai Rawal’s academic journey took her to India, where she earned a Bachelor of Arts degree, followed by Bachelors and Master of Laws (LLB and LLM) in constitutional and administrative law. Under the mentorship of P.N. Bhagwati, who later became the 17th Chief Justice of India, she honed her legal skills and began her practice.
Journey to Kenya and Pioneering Achievements
In 1973, at the age of 27, Kalpana Rawal moved to Kenya to join her husband, businessman Hasmukhrai Rawal. Two years later, she made history by establishing her own law firm, becoming the first woman to run a law firm in Kenya. This bold move set her on a path to becoming the first female judge of Asian origin in Kenya, appointed by then-President Daniel Moi.
Kalpana Hasmukhrai Rawal’s legal career in Kenya began with her enrollment as an advocate of the High Court of Kenya in July 1975. Kalpana Hasmukhrai Rawal balanced her practice with teaching administration and regular police officers at Lower Kabete. Her law firm, K H Rawal Advocates, located at Imenti House, became a symbol of her pioneering spirit and dedication to the legal profession.
Judicial Career and Reforms
Rawal’s judicial career is marked by over 40 years of experience and numerous groundbreaking reforms. In 1999, she was appointed Commissioner of Assize, and subsequently, a judge of the High Court of Kenya. Her tenure saw significant improvements in the Civil, Criminal, Family, Environmental, and Land Law divisions, where she reduced severe backlogs and expedited case disposals.
Kalpana Hasmukhrai Rawal’s role as the Liaison Judge for Kenya in April 2010 made her a member of the International Hague Network of Judges. She also assisted the International Criminal Court (ICC) in taking evidence from security officers regarding the 2007/2008 Post Election Violence in Kenya.
Landmark Judgments and Leadership Roles
In 2011, Kalpana Hasmukhrai Rawal delivered a significant judgment against the Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission, barring it from confiscating assets to recover Sh140 million. Her expertise and dedication led to her nomination for the position of Deputy Chief Justice by the Judicial Service Commission in February 2013. She was successfully vetted by Parliament and appointed by the President, marking another milestone in her illustrious career.
Investigative Roles and Recognition
Justice Rawal’s leadership extended to her role in the judicial inquiry into the June 2012 Kenya Police helicopter crash, which claimed the lives of six people, including Minister George Saitoti. Her ability to handle sensitive and high-profile cases with integrity and diligence earned her respect and recognition.
Retirement and Legacy
As per the Constitution of Kenya, Rawal was required to retire upon reaching the age of 70. Despite a protracted legal battle insisting she should retire at 74, the Supreme Court confirmed the retirement age as 70. On June 14, 2016, she honorably retired from her position.
Throughout her career, Kalpana Rawal has played a pivotal role in paving the way for women in the justice system. Her contributions have been recognized with numerous accolades, including the prestigious Elder of the Order of Burning Spear (EBS) awarded by President Uhuru Kenyatta.
Also Read:Claude Ajit Moraes: Champion of Human Rights and Social Justice