'Time For Women Lawyers To Break Every Glass Ceiling': Jammu & Kashmir And Ladakh High Court Chief Justice Arun Palli In Farewell Address

Addressing a Full Court Reference held in his honour at the Srinagar Wing of the High Court over his elevation to the Supreme Court, Justice Palli reflected upon his association with the institution, expressed gratitude to the Bench, Bar, Registry and judicial officers, and said that his tenure in Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh had given him not merely institutional experiences but enduring emotional bonds.

The Full Court Reference was convened following Justice Palli's elevation as a Judge of the Supreme Court of India. The ceremony was attended by Judges of the High Court, former Chief Justices and Judges, senior officers of the civil administration, members of the Bar, judicial officers and Registry officials.

A Full Bench comprising all sitting Judges of the High Court participated in the proceedings. Justice Sanjeev Kumar delivered the farewell address and reflected upon Justice Palli's judicial career, leadership and contributions to the institution. Senior Additional Advocate General Mohsin Qadri also addressed the gathering and highlighted Justice Palli's scholarship, administrative acumen and commitment to the cause of justice.

In his farewell speech, Justice Palli recalled that when he assumed office as Chief Justice a little over a year ago, he had travelled from Chandigarh to Jammu and Kashmir carrying not only official responsibilities but also a degree of uncertainty about the new assignment. He said those doubts disappeared very early in his tenure. Justice Palli remarked, “What I discovered here was extraordinary.”

Earlier, the President of the Kashmir Advocates Association praised Justice Palli's humility, judicial wisdom and dedication to the rule of law, while Justice Sanjeev Kumar recalled the profound impact of his stewardship on the administration of justice and functioning of the High Court.

Responding to the farewell addresses, Justice Palli devoted a substantial part of his speech to acknowledging the contribution of the Bar, the district judiciary and the Registry, while also reflecting upon the people and culture of Jammu, Kashmir and Ladakh.

Justice Palli described the Bar of Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh as one possessing exceptional ability, dignity and commitment. He said that whether in Srinagar or Jammu, and whether among senior advocates or young practitioners, he encountered remarkable talent, discipline and promise.

Paying tribute to senior members of the profession, he stated that hearing them had been both a privilege and an education, adding that they were “the moving libraries of this institution” from whom younger lawyers had much to learn.

Justice Palli reserved special praise for the younger members of the Bar and said that what impressed him was not merely their knowledge of law but their eagerness to learn and their respect for the traditions of the institution. He remarked,

“I have absolutely no doubt that the future of the legal profession in this region is exceptionally bright. The talent pool here is extraordinary.”

One of the most notable portions of the address was directed towards women lawyers. Justice Palli observed that the present moment belonged to them and encouraged them not to confine themselves within perceived limitations.

He stated, “It is time to break every glass ceiling that may still exist. It is time not to confine themselves to any perceived limitations or traditional boundaries of practice.”

Encouraging women advocates to embrace every opportunity available in the profession, he added, “Spread your wings and take flight.”

Justice Palli also expressed gratitude to his colleagues on the Bench and acknowledged the support he received throughout his tenure. He emphasised that institutions progress through collective effort and mutual respect and observed that no Chief Justice can succeed in isolation.

The Chief Justice further paid tribute to judicial officers serving across Jammu, Kashmir and Ladakh, noting that many worked under difficult geographical and climatic conditions while carrying significant responsibilities with limited resources. He remarked,

“… I must also place on record my deep appreciation for the judicial officers across Jammu, Kashmir, and Ladakh. Many among them work under difficult geographical and climatic conditions, often away from their families, carrying enormous responsibilities with very limited resources. Yet, I consistently witnessed dedication, integrity, and resilience.”

Acknowledging the Registry, Justice Palli remarked that while courtrooms constitute the visible face of the institution, its invisible strength lies in the officers and staff who ensure that files move, orders are implemented and systems function efficiently. He also expressed appreciation for the Registrar General and his personal staff for their support, professionalism and dedication during his tenure.

Towards the conclusion of his address, Justice Palli reflected upon his experience of living and serving in Jammu, Kashmir and Ladakh. He said that beyond the natural beauty for which the region is known, what had touched him most deeply was the warmth, generosity and humanity of its people.

Justice Arun Palli concluded his farewell speech by expressing gratitude, humility and optimism for the future of the High Court of Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh. He said that the institution had given him friendships, memories and affection that he would always cherish.

Stating that he would carry emotional bonds formed during his tenure close to his heart, Justice Palli expressed hope that the High Court would continue to flourish and commanded enduring public trust. He concluded his address with the words, “May this institution continue to grow in strength, independence, and public trust.”

Following the conclusion of the Full Court Reference, Justice Arun Palli was accorded a ceremonial Guard of Honour by security personnel as a mark of respect on his elevation to the Supreme Court of India.