The Kerala High Court on January 27, 2026 conducted a solemn full court obituary reference to honor the life and service of former Judge Justice S. Siri Jagan, who passed away on January 24 at the age of 74 in Kochi after battling illness. His death drew deep respect and reflection from across the legal community, marking the loss of a jurist remembered for his integrity, compassion, and commitment to justice.
Justice Jagan was appointed to the Kerala High Court bench in February 2005 and served with distinction until his retirement in 2014. During his nearly decade-long judicial career, he earned a reputation for thoughtfully reasoned judgments, particularly in constitutional and administrative law, and for his dedication to upholding the dignity of the court and the rights of litigants. His colleagues remembered him as approachable, patient and deeply rooted in the principle that justice must be accessible to all, especially the vulnerable.
At the obituary reference, Chief Justice Soumen Sen highlighted Justice Jagan’s faithful discharge of judicial duties and his unwavering commitment to social justice. He also noted the late judge’s contributions to court administration and his ability to balance legal rigor with empathy toward those seeking justice.
After retirement, Justice Jagan remained actively involved in public life. He served as the Acting Vice-Chancellor of the National University of Advanced Legal Studies (NUALS), Kochi, where he contributed significantly to legal education and mentoring future lawyers. He also chaired key committees, such as the Sabarimala High Power Committee and a panel on stray dog compensation, reflecting his continued focus on public welfare.
The memorial event concluded with a moment of silence in his honor. Justice Jagan is survived by his wife, Dr. M. Jayalakshmi, and their daughters, who remember him as both a respected jurist and a compassionate individual whose legacy will continue to influence Kerala’s legal and academic spheres.
