Justice V Kameswar Rao, who has been repatriated to Delhi High Court, bid a tearful adieu to the Karnataka High Court on Saturday

He thanked the Bar and the Bench for their unwavering support and affection.

"Moving to a new city and adapting to a different environment is never easy but your love and encouragement made it feel like home," a teary eyed Justice Rao said choking up.

He added that he had never felt like an outsider at the Karnataka High Court, and described his time there as enriching.

“These 14 months have passed as swiftly as an autumn breeze but has left behind great experience and lasting memories. I have had the pleasure of working with my extremely talented colleagues...I never once felt like an outsider. I take with me beautiful memories of your warmth, your culture…my time here at the Karnataka High Court has been enriching and I want to express my heartfelt gratitude to everyone who made it so special,” he said.

Justice Rao also thanked the Advocates’ Bar Association for its support, stating that the love and encroachment received by him in Karnataka had made him feel at home. 

”I want to thank advocates’ associations. Your discourse in the court has not only sharpen my understanding of the law but has ensured that justice be dispensed with utmost fairness. The work environment in Karnataka HC is truly exceptional. I will carry the lessons gained here. Beyond the courtroom Karnataka has captured special place in my heart,” the judge said

Chief Justice Vibhu Bakhru also spoke on the occasion and said, 

“I am informed that brother Justice Rao left an impact here. His transfer is more than a routine…”

Justice Rao was elevated as an additional judge of the Delhi High Court on April 17, 2013 and made permanent on March 18, 2015.

He was transferred to Karnataka in May 2024 after serving over 11 years as a judge of the Delhi High Court. 

Notably, Justice Rao was moved to Karnataka on his request. Following his repatriation, he is set to take oath as Delhi High Court judge on July 21.