'Judges Must Remain True To Law, Balancing Head And Heart Is Art Of Judging': Justice Chandra Dhari Singh Bids Farewell To Delhi HC

Justice Chandra Dhari Singh on Tuesday bid farewell to the Delhi High Court as the Central Government notified his repatriation to Allahabad High Court, his parent High Court.

In his farewell speech, Justice Singh underscored that judging is not a mechanical task and that balancing head and heart is the art of judging.

“I leave the Delhi High Court today not with nostalgia but the hope and inspiration. Hope- because I see in this institution a continuing commitment to uphold the Constitution and serve 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 graduated in Law from Delhi University in the year 1993. He practised in the Supreme Court of India as an "Advocate-on Record" and dealt in Original Side, Civil and Criminal matters in Allahabad High Court, Lucknow Bench, Lucknow, in Delhi High Court, other High Courts, Trial Courts and before Tribunals and Commissions.

He was appointed as an Additional Judge on September 22, 2017 and took oath as Permanent Judge of the Allahabad High Court on September 06, 2019.

Justice Singh was transferred to the Delhi High Court on October 11, 2021.

In his farewell address, the judge said that it has been one of the greatest honors of his life to serve as a judge of the Delhi High Court.

“I come from a small town of Sultanpur in 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.

“Every individual has his fair share of struggles, and indeed, these challenges are the beauty of life. I have navigated my share with guidance, wishes and support of many of you present here today,” the judge added.

Justice Singh thanked the judges of the Delhi High Court, saying that he considers himself truly fortunate to have had colleagues who were like his family and friends and walked with him at every stage.

The judge also lauded the Delhi High Court bar and said that it stands out as one of the most vibrant and dynamic in the country.

“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, and nurture 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 said.

Justice Singh further said that one guiding star in his journey as a judge has been the belief that judges must remain true to the law and sensitive to the lives affected by law.

“Impartially 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.

To the young lawyers, Justice Singh advised them to keep their spirits high and to never give up. The challenges you face will shape you, the judge said.

Justice Singh also cited Rabindranath Tagore's song “Ekla Chalo Re” and told the young lawyers that that even if nobody stands with them, and if what they stand for is just and prideful, they must march ahead.

He ended his address by thanking the judges, his family members for their constant support, his staff members and the Registry of the Delhi High Court.