Union Home Minister Amit Shah called Tushar Mehta's new book a powerful and insightful look at the judiciary during a New Delhi launch event.
The endorsement highlights the intersection of traditional legal practice and emerging technological challenges, signaling a government interest in how the judiciary adapts to modern pressures.
Speaking at the event on May 10, 2026 [1], Shah said "The Bench, the Bar, & the Bizarre is a powerful and insightful book" [2]. He said that the work offers a unique perspective on the judiciary and provides concrete examples of the challenges currently facing the legal system [1].
Shah said the book's exploration of artificial intelligence and other modern legal issues are key contributions to the field [1]. The Home Minister said the depth and wit of the writing suggest the text is relevant for understanding the future of Indian law [1].
Chief Justice of India Surya Kant also attended the event. He said "The book's wit and depth are commendable" [3]. The gathering served as a rare point of shared humor and professional reflection between the executive and judicial branches [4].
Beyond the legal analysis, Shah commented on the personal nature of the work. He said the author's dedication of the book to his mother, stating, "In our country, every day is dedicated to mothers" [5].
Mehta, the Solicitor General, authored the text to capture the nuances of the courtroom experience. The book aims to bridge the gap between formal legal proceedings, and the often unexpected realities of the bar and bench [1].
“"The Bench, the Bar, & the Bizarre is a powerful and insightful book."”
The public praise of this work by both the Home Minister and the Chief Justice of India underscores a shared recognition of the disruptive impact of AI on the legal profession. By highlighting the 'bizarre' and the 'insightful,' the leadership suggests that the Indian judiciary is entering a period of transition where traditional precedents must coexist with rapidly evolving technological realities.
