The Bhatapara Bar Association organized the 20th Foundation Day Ceremony of the Bhatapara Civil Court on 03/12/2025 in the Civil Court premises, Bhatapara. The ceremony was graced by the esteemed presence of the Hon’ble Chief Justice of the High Court of Chhattisgarh, Hon’ble Shri Justice Ramesh Sinha, as the Chief Guest, whose participation added exceptional dignity and significance to the event. The Hon’ble Chief Justice inaugurated the programme with the traditional lighting of the lamp. Hon’ble Shri Justice Rakesh Mohan Pandey was also present and enriched the ceremony with his distinguished presence.
In his inspiring address, the Hon’ble Chief Justice Shri Ramesh Sinha reflected deeply on the evolution of the judiciary and the pivotal role of the legal community. He emphasized that this celebration was not merely a ceremonial gathering but “a tribute to our collective journey, shared values, and the unwavering spirit of the legal fraternity.”
Highlighting the indispensable harmony between the Bar and the Bench, His Lordship stated that justice flourishes only when both institutions work with mutual respect, dignity, and a shared sense of duty. The Hon’ble Chief Justice appreciated the historical and ongoing contribution of the Bhatapara Bar Association, noting that it has consistently upheld professional ethics, discipline, and the intellectual development of its members.
Addressing young lawyers, Hon’ble the Chief Justice stated: “Your arguments may win cases, but it is your integrity that earns enduring trust in the justice system. Discipline, humility, and a willingness to learn will guide you to lasting success in this noble profession.”
His Lordship hailed the experience of senior advocates as “beacons of light” guiding future generations toward professional excellence. Emphasizing unity over numbers, he said that the true strength of any Bar Association lies in its integrity, professionalism, and commitment to justice. Hon’ble the Chief Justice recalled that the Bhatapara Civil Court was inaugurated on 3 December 2005 and that the Bar Association has grown to a membership strength of 163 advocates. His Lordship outlined the growth of judicial establishments in the region, from the initial courts of Civil Judge (Junior Division) and ADJ Court to the later establishment of courts of Civil Judge (Senior Division) and an Additional District & Sessions Court.
Hon’ble the Chief Justice highlighted that on 06 November 2025, the foundation stone was laid for a new court complex with six new courtrooms, marking a significant enhancement in the region’s judicial infrastructure. His Lordship extended heartfelt greetings to all on the 20th Foundation Day of the Bhatapara Civil Court.
Hon’ble Shri Justice Rakesh Mohan Pandey, in his address, praised the exemplary leadership, vision, and administrative accomplishments of the Hon’ble Chief Justice Shri Ramesh Sinha. His Lordship noted that since assuming office on 29 March 2023, Hon’ble the Chief Justice has accelerated judicial processes remarkably. At the time of his joining, about 95,000 cases were pending before the High Court; under his dynamic leadership, the number has now decreased to 78,000, marking a substantial and commendable decline.
Hon’ble Shri Justice Rakesh Mohan Pandey highlighted that the pace of judicial infrastructure development under the Chief Justice’s tenure has been unmatched in the past two decades. His Lordship informed that 7 new court buildings, 80 residential quarters, and 8 other major infrastructure projects have been completed in the High Court. In the District Judiciary, 26 court building projects have commenced, some completed, some under construction, and others newly inaugurated. Additionally, residential facilities at 24 locations have been sanctioned for judicial officers and court staff, some completed, some under construction.
Hon’ble Shri Justice Rakesh Mohan Pandey remarked “The infrastructure development achieved in the last two and a half years surpasses the progress made in the previous 22 years. This stands as a clear testament to the Chief Justice’s efficiency, foresight, and unwavering commitment to the advancement of the judiciary.”
The programme commenced with a welcome address by Senior Advocate Shri G.D. Manikpuri and concluded with the vote of thanks by Shri Anil Mishra, President of the Bhatapara Bar Association.
The event witnessed the presence of the Registrar General Shri Rajnish Shrivastava, the Principal District & Sessions Judge, Balodabazar-Bhatapara, Judicial and Administrative officers of Balodabazar and Bhatapara, Members of the Bar, Court staff, Representatives from the print and electronic media.
