Tried to softly bend laws to ensure justice: Chief Justice DK Upadhyaya bids farewell to Delhi High Court

Chief Justice Devendra Kumar Upadhyaya on Tuesday bid farewell to the Delhi High Court, following his recent elevation as a judge of the Supreme Court.

Speaking at the full-court farewell reference organised in his honour at the Delhi High Court, Chief Justice (CJ) Upadhyaya underscored that the Chief Justice is merely the “first among equals."

CJ Upadhyaya described judging as an effort to bind law, justice, and compassion together. He shared insights into his judicial journey, his approach to justice, and his experience as the Chief Justice of the Delhi High Court.

"Like other judges, I came across situations when the law was not able to ensure a just outcome and appeared isolated from justice. In such situations, I tried to softly bend the law towards justice for the deserving litigants. To be able to do so has been a blessing," he said.

Reflecting on the debate between "good versus great judges," he went on to remark,

"My endeavour has been to be a good judge, may not be a great judge."

CJ Upadhyaya observed that Delhi is a smaller geographical territory compared to States like Uttar Pradesh or Maharashtra. However, managing the Delhi High Court is far from simple, he pointed out.

"The sheer complexity and the cases this court deals with are unparalleled," he said.

Drawing an analogy to India's cultural synthesis, he likened the Delhi High Court to an “Indian thali” composed of diverse dishes served together on a single platter. He went on to express deep gratitude for how warmly Delhi embraced him.

"India is often described as a melting pot or salad bowl of cultures. Some say India is more like a thali comprising different dishes served on a platter. I agree with them and I find Delhi HC an Indian thali. I am grateful to you for making me feel like home," he said.

Concluding his address on a lighter note, CJ Upadhyaya quoted Oscar Wilde and said,

“Some cause happiness wherever they go; others whenever they go. I don't know in which category I will be placed, but the answer lies with posterity.”

The gathering included fellow High Court judges, Additional Solicitor General Chetan Sharma, and other members of the Bar.

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