“The Robes May Be Heavy, But They Carry the Weight of Trust”: Justice Vibhu Bakhru Bids Farewell to Delhi High Court

In an emotional and reflective farewell speech, Justice Vibhu Bakhru bid adieu to the Delhi High Court after an illustrious legal career spanning over 36 years. Speaking before a packed courtroom that included fellow judges, senior advocates, bar leaders, and court staff, Justice Bakhru shared his journey from an aspiring doctor to a respected member of the judiciary.

Among those in attendance were Mr. Chetan Sharma, Additional Solicitor General of India; Mr. Sameer Vashisht, Standing Counsel (Civil) for the Government of NCT of Delhi; Mr. Rajesh Mishra, Honorary Secretary of the Bar Council of Delhi; Mr. Sangwan, Member, Bar Council of Delhi; Mr. Hariharan, President, and Mr. Panwar, Secretary of the Delhi High Court Bar Association. Justice Bakhru thanked all attendees for their presence and support over the years.

Reflecting on his early life, Justice Bakhru shared that he came from a family of engineers and doctors. Initially set on joining the Armed Forces Medical College (AFMC) to become a doctor, he ultimately decided to pursue law, a choice encouraged but pragmatically cautioned by his father. To ensure financial stability, he simultaneously qualified as a Chartered Accountant, clearing the entrance exam in 1984 and joining a reputed firm while pursuing his B.Com and later LL.B.

Justice Bakhru recalled his initial years as a legal professional with humility and humour. He began his legal journey in the chamber of Mr. Harish Salve and later started his independent practice, gradually evolving from drafting briefs to arguing cases and eventually being designated as a Senior Advocate. His elevation to the Bench came in 2013, a moment he described as unexpected and humbling.

He acknowledged the steep learning curve upon joining the judiciary, noting that even decades of legal practice could not fully prepare one for the transition to judging. He expressed deep gratitude to Justice S. Ravindra Bhat, his initial bench partner and mentor, and fondly recalled his experiences working alongside Justices S. Muralidhar and others, highlighting their compassion and insight.

Justice Bakhru emphasized that the Delhi High Court had shaped him not just professionally, but personally. He praised the institution for its evolving jurisprudence and commitment to the rule of law. He acknowledged the contributions of the court staff and fellow judges, noting the camaraderie that existed among them—especially their tradition of sharing lunch daily, which he described with warmth and humour.

He expressed sincere appreciation for the Bar, crediting its vibrant participation and relentless questioning for sharpening the Bench. He described the court staff as the “backbone of the justice delivery system,” applauding their quiet, steadfast commitment to the institution.

In a heartfelt tribute, Justice Bakhru thanked his personal staff—stenographers, court masters, attendants, driver, PSOs, by name, recognising their relentless support and flexibility that enabled him to work long hours. He also extended his gratitude to the many juniors and lawyers he had worked with, acknowledging the demanding nature of the profession and its all-consuming reality: “There is no work-life balance in this profession—there is only work, and that becomes life,” he remarked.

Justice Bakhru concluded with an emotional note of thanks to his family. He paid special tribute to his wife, calling her his best friend of 42 years.  He also thanked his children and their spouses for keeping him grounded with humour and love.

Ending his address, Justice Bakhru said he leaves the Delhi High Court with a deep sense of gratitude, carrying with him its values, memories, and legacy. He expressed hope that the institution would continue to serve as a beacon of justice and uphold the principles of integrity, independence, and empathy.