New Delhi: On August 8, outgoing Supreme Court judge Justice Sudhanshu Dhulia delivered an emotional farewell address, expressing unwavering confidence in the Indian judiciary’s credibility. He affirmed that the Supreme Court will always remain the “torchbearer and custodian” of freedom and justice in the country.
Speaking at his farewell function organised by the Supreme Court Bar Association (SCBA), Justice Dhulia, set to retire on August 9, said the trust of ordinary citizens sustains the judiciary and the justice delivery system.
CJI’s Poetic Tribute and Warm Farewell
Chief Justice of India B.R. Gavai paid glowing tributes to Justice Dhulia’s service, quoting a famous Hindi film song: “Abhi na jao chhod kar ke dil abhi bhara nahi” (Don’t leave yet, for the heart still longs).
In his remarks, Justice Dhulia said, “I am confident that the faith in our courts and judiciary will never be shaken and the Supreme Court of India will continue to be the torchbearer and custodian of freedom and justice in this country.”
Earlier on the ceremonial bench, he reflected on hearing matters from across the nation and added, “I am going to miss my Hindustan.”
A Distinguished Judicial Career
CJI Gavai said Justice Dhulia’s retirement marks the end of a significant chapter in judicial history. Over his tenure, he delivered several landmark decisions that shaped Indian jurisprudence—ranging from property transfer cases to the protection of fundamental rights in the context of social justice.
“In a profession where power and authority can sometimes overshadow compassion, Justice Dhulia always remained grounded,” the CJI observed.
A Passion for Arts Beyond the Bench
Highlighting Justice Dhulia’s love for theatre and cinema, CJI Gavai said, “Had he not chosen the legal profession, it is no exaggeration to say that Justice Dhulia would have excelled as a filmmaker or an actor.”
In a lighter vein, he added, “If Justice Dhulia had stepped into his brother Tigmanshu’s shoes to play Ramadhir Singh in Gangs of Wasseypur, the character would still have been unforgettable.” Justice Dhulia’s brother, Tigmanshu Dhulia, is a noted filmmaker.
Reflections on the Supreme Court’s Pace and People’s Faith
Justice Dhulia said his time at the Supreme Court was both challenging and fulfilling. “One factor which distinguishes the Supreme Court from all other courts is the pace of work, particularly on Mondays and Fridays,” he remarked.
He recalled how villagers in rural areas, when harassed by authorities, often express hope in the courts’ power to grant relief. “It is this faith in the common man which has kept our judiciary and the system alive,” he said.
He also urged lawyers to “speak with courage and integrity” and to always remain fearless in their duty.
Farewell Tributes from the Bar
Attorney General R. Venkataramani, SCBA president Vikas Singh, and several senior advocates also spoke at the farewell. Vikas Singh praised Justice Dhulia’s decision to vacate his official bungalow on the day of retirement, contrasting it with instances where judges overstayed their allotted tenure in government housing.
His comments came amid a recent instance where the Supreme Court administration wrote to the Centre regarding the delayed vacation of former CJI D.Y. Chandrachud’s official residence at 5, Krishna Menon Marg, which was eventually vacated earlier in August.
Career Milestones
Born on August 10, 1960, Justice Dhulia began his legal career at the Allahabad High Court. Following the creation of the Uttarakhand High Court in 2000, he shifted practice there. He became a senior advocate before being elevated to the bench in 2008.
On January 10, 2021, he took oath as Chief Justice of the Gauhati High Court, and on May 9, 2022, he was elevated to the Supreme Court of India.
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