Judge's Job Is Not To Please Anyone, Satisfaction Lies In Doing Justice: Bombay High Court Justice Vibha Kankanwadi In Farewell Speech

Justice Kankanwadi, who was elevated to the High Court 9 years ago, retired from service after being a judge for a total of 34 years.

In her farewell speech, Justice Kankanwadi, who is the first woman judge to head the Aurangabad bench of the High Court, said that it is solemn duty of a judge to administer justice, protect constitutional values and maintain public confidence in the judicial system.

"The satisfaction of work can be achieved or felt when you do your job to the best of your ability. But this isn't a job which can be done to the satisfaction of others or please anyone," Justice Kankanwadi said.

Further, the judge pointed out that the public only sees a judge in the courtroom delivering judgments and orders but the efforts of a judge beyond his courtroom aren't seen by the public.

"Public often sees only the court room proceedings and pronouncement of judgments, life of a judge extends far beyond the courtroom and is marked by dedication, sacrifice, integrity and continuous learning. The journey of most judges begins at the Bar. Before assuming judicial office they spend years as advocates learning the law, understanding dynamics of litigation and developing skills necessary for administration of justice. Courtroom becomes their classrooms, Bar serves as the institution where foundations of judicial characters are laid," the outgoing judge said.

In her address, the judge stated that one of the most important ways in which Bar shapes a judge is through advocacy as judges rely on advocates for the presentation of facts.

"Legal principles and judicial precedents, well researched arguments, balanced submissions and professional assistance helps judges understand complex legal issues and arrive at sound conclusions. The quality of judicial decisions often influenced by the quality of assistance provided by the Bar. It also acts as a source of practical wisdom for judges through daily interaction with litigants, witnesses and legal institutions," the judge said.

Advocates, the judge pointed out, gain valuable insights into human behaviour and social realities and these experiences help future Judges develop empathy, balance and a deeper understanding of the impact of judicial decisions on society.

"As judges it becomes our responsibility to keep the judiciary on its high standards. It requires dedication and devotion," the judge concluded.