Justice Chandra Dhari Singh on Tuesday bid farewell to the Delhi High Court following the Central Government's notification of his repatriation to the Allahabad High Court, his parent High Court.
In his farewell speech, Justice Singh highlighted that judging is not a mechanical task and that balancing both head and heart is the essence of the judicial process.
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"I leave the Delhi High Court today not with nostalgia but with hope and inspiration. Hope—because I see in this institution a continuous commitment to upholding the Constitution and serving the people. Inspiration—because the cause of justice is eternal, and there will always be a courageous soul in the law ready to take up that cause," he said.
Justice Singh, an alumnus of Delhi University, graduated in Law in 1993. He practiced in the Supreme Court of India as an "Advocate-on-Record" and handled Original Side, Civil, and Criminal matters in Allahabad High Court, Delhi High Court, and other legal forums, including Tribunals and Commissions.
His judicial career began when he was appointed as an Additional Judge on September 22, 2017. Later, he took oath as a Permanent Judge of the Allahabad High Court on September 06, 2019. On October 11, 2021, he was transferred to the Delhi High Court.
In his farewell address, Justice Singh expressed gratitude for the opportunity to serve as a judge of the Delhi High Court, calling it one of the greatest honors of his life.
"I come from a small town in Sultanpur, Uttar Pradesh, and I am a first-generation lawyer. Looking back at my journey, from those humble beginnings to this bench, I am reminded that nothing comes easy in life," he said.
Acknowledging the struggles that come with life and career, he emphasized that challenges shape individuals and that he has navigated his journey with the support of colleagues, friends, and well-wishers.
Justice Singh extended his appreciation to the judges of the Delhi High Court, calling them his family and friends who stood by him at every stage of his career. He also praised the Delhi High Court Bar for its vibrancy and dedication.
"Not only does it consistently assist us in the pursuit of justice with dedication and skill, but it also brings everyone together through thoughtful events and initiatives, nurturing both physical and mental well-being... The professionalism that I have experienced here is something I will always cherish. It's been a privilege to witness this standard of practice," he noted.
Reflecting on his guiding principles, he underscored that a judge must remain true to the law while being sensitive to the lives impacted by legal decisions.
"Impartiality has been our cardinal virtue to decide each case. Judging is not a mechanical task. It demands empathy and wisdom. Indeed, a judge must sometimes harden his heart to do justice, but he must never become indifferent," he said.
Addressing young lawyers, Justice Singh encouraged them to persevere in the face of challenges, assuring them that their experiences will shape them.
Quoting Rabindranath Tagore's song "Ekla Chalo Re," he urged young lawyers to remain steadfast in their beliefs, even if they must walk alone.
In his closing remarks, Justice Singh thanked the judges, his family for their unwavering support, his staff members, and the Registry of the Delhi High Court for their assistance during his tenure.
