Bilaspur: The High Court of Chhattisgarh on Thursday bid farewell to Hon’ble Shri Justice Ramesh Sinha, who demitted office as Chief Justice after a distinguished tenure marked by substantial judicial disposals, development of judicial infrastructure and a strong emphasis on institutional strengthening.
Justice Ramesh Sinha assumed charge as the 15th Chief Justice of the High Court of Chhattisgarh on March 29, 2023. During his tenure, the High Court disposed of 50,228 cases between March 29, 2023 and September 1, 2026. Of these, 32,600 matters were decided by the Single Bench, while 17,628 matters were decided by the Division Bench.
The farewell ceremony was attended by Judges of the High Court, the Advocate General, officers and employees of the Registry, members of the Bar, representatives of the State Government and members of the wider judicial fraternity.
Justice Sinha Emphasises Institution Building
Addressing the gathering, Justice Sinha said that the responsibilities of a Chief Justice extend beyond judicial administration and disposal of cases. He emphasised the importance of institution-building, judicial infrastructure and ensuring a dignified and conducive working environment for Judges, officers and employees.
He observed that a court is not merely a physical structure but a place where citizens approach the justice system with their grievances, expectations and faith in the rule of law. Judicial infrastructure, therefore, should reflect the dignity of the institution and facilitate the effective administration of justice.
Justice Sinha also stressed that the legitimate entitlements of Judges, officers and employees should be provided without unnecessary delay or difficulty. He expressed the hope that everyone associated with the High Court would regard it as “my institution”, where their work is respected and their contribution is recognised.
50,228 Cases Disposed During Tenure
The judicial disposal figures presented during the farewell ceremony highlighted the scale of work undertaken during Justice Sinha’s tenure. The High Court disposed of a total of 50,228 matters, comprising 32,600 cases before the Single Bench and 17,628 before the Division Bench.
The Advocate General also highlighted that Justice Sinha had disposed of 6,498 matters within approximately seven months, accounting for nearly 22 per cent of the Court’s total disposals during the corresponding period.
More Than 369 Reported AFR Judgments
Justice Sinha’s contribution was not confined to the volume of cases disposed of. During his tenure, he also contributed to the development of legal jurisprudence through more than 369 reported AFR judgments.
The judgments addressed significant and evolving legal questions concerning constitutional law, criminal law, arbitration and service law, among other areas.
The Advocate General also referred to Justice Sinha’s extensive judicial experience and stated that before assuming office as Chief Justice of the High Court of Chhattisgarh, he had delivered approximately 1,34,200 judgments.
Justice Sanjay K. Agrawal Pays Tribute
In his opening address, Hon’ble Mr. Justice Sanjay K. Agrawal paid tribute to Justice Ramesh Sinha and acknowledged his distinguished judicial career and leadership.
Justice Agrawal said the occasion was an opportunity to recognise the contribution of a jurist whose wisdom, integrity, commitment and administrative leadership had strengthened the institution and contributed to public confidence in the justice-delivery system.
The Advocate General and other speakers also recalled Justice Sinha’s judicial career and institutional contribution, describing his tenure as significant for the High Court of Chhattisgarh.
Focus on Judicial Infrastructure and Welfare
In his farewell address, Justice Sinha referred to the court buildings and other infrastructure developed during his tenure and expressed the hope that these facilities would serve future generations of the judiciary.
He also highlighted residential facilities for members of the judicial institution and improved facilities for the Bar. He said that such measures were important for creating a better working environment and strengthening the relationship between the Bench and the Bar.
“Slightly Stronger Than I Found It”
A key message of Justice Sinha’s farewell address was the importance of preserving institutional values. He emphasised that institutions derive their strength not merely from physical infrastructure but from fairness, trust, commitment and fidelity to justice.
Addressing Judges, officers and employees, he urged them to maintain their faith in the institution and reminded them that their work represents service to one of the pillars of constitutional democracy.
He stressed that while an individual office is temporary, the institution must endure. Justice Sinha said his tenure would be meaningful if he could leave behind an institution “slightly stronger than I found it.”
Judicial Fraternity Extends Best Wishes
At the conclusion of his tenure, Judges of the High Court, the Registrar General and Registry officers, officers of the Chhattisgarh State Judicial Academy, members of the Bar, Registry employees and the wider judicial fraternity expressed gratitude to Justice Sinha for his service and leadership.
The judicial community extended its best wishes to the outgoing Chief Justice for good health, happiness, peace and a fulfilling life ahead.
Justice Ramesh Sinha’s tenure at the High Court of Chhattisgarh concludes with a substantial judicial and institutional record, including 50,228 case disposals and more than 369 reported AFR judgments, along with a focus on judicial infrastructure, institutional welfare, the dignity of the Bench and Bar and strengthening the High Court for future generations.