Chief Justice Ramesh Sinha of the Chhattisgarh High Court retired on September 4 after serving as the head of the court since March 29, 2023. A farewell ceremony was held at the High Court, where Justice Sinha spoke about the importance of institutional trust, judicial independence and the relationship between the Bench and the Bar.
During his tenure as Chief Justice, 50,228 cases were disposed of, including 32,600 matters before single benches and 17,628 before division benches. He also delivered more than 369 reported judgments dealing with significant questions of constitutional, criminal, arbitration and service law.
Justice Sinha Emphasises Institutional Values
Addressing the farewell gathering, Justice Sinha said courts should not be viewed merely as physical structures. They are institutions where citizens approach the justice system with their hopes and faith in the rule of law.
He stressed that the Bench and the Bar are integral parts of the same justice-delivery system. According to him, an independent and dignified Bar is essential for a strong judiciary.
Justice Sinha also thanked judges, Registry officials, advocates and the state administration for their cooperation during his tenure.
Chief Justice’s Role Extends Beyond Case Disposal
Justice Sinha said the responsibilities of a Chief Justice go beyond deciding cases. Strengthening the institution, improving infrastructure and creating a dignified working environment are also important aspects of judicial administration.
He underlined the importance of fairness, trust and commitment to justice in building a strong judicial institution.
The outgoing Chief Justice said judicial office and the individuals occupying such positions are temporary, while institutions must remain strong and enduring.
50,228 Cases Disposed During Tenure
Justice Sinha took oath as Chief Justice of the Chhattisgarh High Court on March 29, 2023. According to figures presented during the farewell programme, 50,228 cases were disposed of during his tenure as Chief Justice.
The disposal figure comprised:
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32,600 cases decided by single benches
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17,628 cases decided by division benches
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369-plus reported judgments dealing with important legal questions
Before becoming Chief Justice of Chhattisgarh, Justice Sinha had served at the Allahabad High Court and had decided approximately 1,34,200 cases as a judge there, according to the Chhattisgarh High Court's official profile.
Infrastructure and Administrative Work Highlighted
Justice Sanjay K. Agrawal, who spoke at the beginning of the ceremony, highlighted administrative and institutional work undertaken during Justice Sinha’s tenure, including developments concerning courts and residential facilities across the state.
The farewell programme also recognised Justice Sinha’s contribution to judicial administration and his role in strengthening the functioning of the High Court.
Justice Sanjay K. Agrawal to Perform CJ Duties
Following Justice Sinha’s retirement, Justice Sanjay K. Agrawal was appointed to perform the duties of the Chief Justice of the Chhattisgarh High Court under Article 223 of the Constitution.
The Union Law Ministry notified the arrangement on September 4, following Justice Sinha’s retirement. Justice Agrawal will perform the duties of the Chief Justice until the appointment of the next regular Chief Justice takes effect.
The development comes after the Supreme Court Collegium recommended Justice Krushna Ram Mohapatra of the Orissa High Court for appointment as the next Chief Justice of Chhattisgarh following Justice Sinha’s retirement.
Justice Agrawal had also been recommended by the Collegium for appointment as Chief Justice of the Rajasthan High Court.
A Farewell Focused on the Institution
Justice Sinha’s farewell address focused less on individual achievement and more on the continuity of the judicial institution.
He said the success of his tenure would ultimately depend on whether he left behind an institution stronger than the one he had inherited. His remarks placed emphasis on institutional values, cooperation between judges and lawyers and maintaining public confidence in the justice system.
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