The Calcutta High Court on Monday bid farewell to Justice Chitta Ranjan Dash in a full-court reference. Justice Dash, who graduated from Madhu Sudan Law College in 1985 and later obtained an LL.M. from Utkal University, has had a distinguished career in the judiciary.

Justice Dash enrolled as an advocate in 1986 and joined the Orissa Superior Judicial Service in 1999. His career included positions such as Additional District & Sessions Judge, Special Judge (Vigilance), and District & Sessions Judge in various locations. He also served as Chairman of the Orissa Sales Tax Tribunal and Registrar of the Orissa High Court.

Elevated as an Additional Judge of the Orissa High Court in 2009, Justice Dash was transferred to the Calcutta High Court in June 2022. His tenure was marked by a controversial judgment advising adolescent girls to “control their sexual urges,” which drew severe criticism from the Supreme Court. The high court”s remarks came during the acquittal of a man convicted of sexual assault, a decision the Supreme Court found deeply problematic.

In his farewell speech, Live Law reported that, Justice Dash reflected on the heritage and legacy of the Calcutta High Court, noting its historical significance as a former Supreme Court for the country. He expressed regret over the court”s diminished leadership role in a national context.

Justice Dash also revealed his long-standing association with the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) and expressed his readiness to rejoin the organization after a 37-year hiatus, should they find him suitable.

”Today I must unfold my true self. I owe a lot to one organisation. I am there from my childhood till I attained my youth. I have learned to be courageous, upright, equal view for others and above all the sense of patriotism and commitment to the work wherever you work. I must admit here that I was and I am the member of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS),” Live Law quoted him as saying.

He emphasized his commitment to impartiality throughout his judicial career and urged junior members of the Bar to uphold the High Court”s legacy.