Justice Attau Rahman Masoodi was born on 3 August 1963 in Mogal Pura, Jammu and Kashmir. After completing his matriculation from Government High School Trehgam in Kupwara district in 1979, he graduated in Science from Sri Pratap College, Srinagar in 1985, and earned his law degree from Lucknow University in 1988. Enrolled with the Uttar Pradesh Bar Council in 1989, Justice Masoodi practiced primarily in civil, constitutional, service, and environmental law before being elevated to Additional Judge in 2014 and subsequently confirmed as a Permanent Judge in 2016. Throughout his tenure, he was recognized for his commitment to democracy and deep understanding of judicial independence, serving as a vital part of the Allahabad High Court until his retirement.
At his farewell ceremony on 1 August 2025, several prominent figures lauded Justice Masoodi’s exemplary career and personal qualities. Fellow judges, senior advocates, and members of the Awadh Bar Association spoke about his compassionate judicial philosophy, fairness, and dedication to justice. The Chief Justice highlighted Justice Masoodi’s role in upholding the court’s integrity and traditions, while bar members praised his efforts to foster a more democratic and competitive legal fraternity. They reflected on his landmark judgments, his rise from humble beginnings, and the respect he earned across the judiciary and legal community for his humility, patience, and intellectual rigor.
In his farewell speech, Justice Masoodi poignantly articulated the emotional complexity of parting ways with the court and the loss felt without his late wife, who had been a pillar of strength throughout his journey. He expressed deep gratitude to his staff and colleagues, acknowledging that their unwavering support and collaboration were essential to the administration of justice. He emphasized that the judiciary’s independence begins in the advocate’s chambers and that it is imperative for all participants of the judicial system to honour transparency and fairness. Justice Masoodi praised the democratic processes within the legal community, applauding the Awadh Bar Association’s electoral reforms that enhanced competitive assessment and participation among lawyers.
Further, he reflected on the foundational role of intellectual deliberation in court procedures, describing it as the essence of societal trust in the judiciary. He underscored the urgent need to protect judicial independence from external pressures, especially highlighting challenges faced by government lawyers who sometimes find their ability to represent clients freely, compromised.
Justice Masoodi also shared a personal connection with Chief Justice Devendra Kumar Upadhyay, describing him as being very close to his heart. He expressed sorrow at no longer being part of the common WhatsApp group of judges and missing daily interactions such as conversations and lunches, portraying a strong bond beyond professional ties. His farewell was filled with humility and warmth, leaving a lasting impression that while his formal service had ended, his commitment and relationships within the judiciary would continue.