Born on February 13, 1951, Justice Eqbal's early education was completed at Ranchi Zila School in 1967. He obtained his bachelor's degree in Science from Ranchi University before pursuing Law. In 1974, he achieved a rare distinction by graduating with First Class Honors and a Gold Medal.
Justice Eqbal began his practice in 1975 in Civil Court, specializing in civil law. His exceptional skills led to his appointment as standing counsel for numerous banks, insurance companies, and financial institutions. In 1988, he moved his practice to the Ranchi Bench of Patna High Court. By 1990, he was appointed as a Government Pleader, and in 1993, he became Government Advocate in the Ranchi Bench. He served as standing counsel for various institutions, including Universities, the Electricity Board, and the Housing Board.
Elevated to the Bench, Justice Eqbal became a Judge of Patna High Court on May 9, 1996, and a Judge of the Jharkhand High Court on November 15, 2000. In 2003, he was nominated to the Ravi and Beas Water Tribunal. He also held positions such as Chairman of the Jharkhand Human Rights Commission and Executive Chairman of the Jharkhand State Legal Services Authority. He served as Judge-In-charge of Judicial Academy, Jharkhand, and as Acting Chief Justice of Jharkhand High Court.
Justice Eqbal's judgments reflect his deep understanding of law, covering areas such as Administrative Law, Constitutional Law, Civil Procedure Code, Criminal Procedure Code, Labour Laws, and more. His judgment in Prasant Vidyarthy & Anr. vs. State of Jharkhand & Ors (2003) is a landmark in constitutional jurisprudence. His progressive view on women’s rights is evident in Ranjana Verma vs. State of Jharkhand & others (2006). He also presided over numerous Lok Adalats.
Justice Eqbal was appointed as Chief Justice of the Madras High Court on June 11, 2010, serving until December 21, 2012. After 16 years as a High Court Judge and Chief Justice, he was elevated to the Supreme Court of India on December 24, 2012. He retired on February 12, 2016.
