NCLAT Decisions Shape Commercial Confidence, Strengthen Rule Of Law: Justice Ashok Bhushan

Outgoing National Company Law Appellate Tribunal (NCLAT) Chairperson Justice Ashok Bhushan, while delivering his farewell address on July 3, said the Tribunal occupies a place of great importance in India's commercial justice system. He said its decisions shape commercial confidence, strengthen the rule of law and contribute to the country's economic progress.

He expressed confidence that the institution would continue to uphold the highest standards of judicial excellence.

"The National Company Law Appellate Tribunal occupies a place of great importance in India's commercial justice system. Its decisions extend beyond the resolution of disputes between parties; they shape commercial confidence, strengthen the rule of the law and contribute to the nation's economic progress. I am confident that this Tribunal, guided by able Members, supported by a dedicated Registry and assisted by a distinguished Bar, will continue to uphold the highest standards of judicial excellence," the Chairperson said.

Reflecting on his judicial philosophy, Justice Bhushan said, "Justice must not only be done but must also be seen to be done." He added that every litigant approaches a courtroom with hope and faith. Preserving that faith had remained foremost in his mind throughout his judicial career.

Describing public office as a public trust, Justice Bhushan said those entrusted with public institutions must not merely preserve them. They should leave them stronger, more efficient and more respected than they found them.

Reflecting on his tenure as NCLAT Chairperson, he said, "If, during my tenure as Chairperson, I have been able in any measure to strengthen this institution, improve its functioning or contribute to the development of the law, I shall consider my service amply rewarded."

Justice Bhushan thanked his colleagues on the Bench, saying mutual respect and intellectual openness had enriched judicial deliberations. He also thanked his Bench partner, Barun Mitra, for his mature advice and assistance.

Justice Bhushan remembered his late father, Allahabad High Court revenue lawyer C.P. Srivastava, from whom he learnt his first lessons in law. He also remembered his mother for instilling in him human values and spirituality.

The Chairperson praised the legal fraternity, saying the NCLAT Bar matched the Bars of the Supreme Court and High Courts in performance, standards and etiquette. He also described the Registry as the backbone of every court and tribunal. He acknowledged the contributions of its officers, staff, law researchers and personal assistants in ensuring the Tribunal's efficient functioning.

"The Registry is truly the backbone of every Court and Tribunal. While judgments are pronounced from the Bench, the quick decision of cases depends upon an efficient, disciplined and responsive Registry. During my tenure as Chairperson, I have had the privilege of working with an exceptionally committed team whose professionalism has ensured that the work of the Tribunal has proceeded smoothly, efficiently and with complete transparency. I fondly remember Shri Peeyush Pandey & Shri Sunit Chandra, earlier Registrars, whose efficient working had rendered great help in performance of my duties," Justice Bhushan said.

Concluding his address, Justice Bhushan thanked his family for their unwavering support. He said retirement marked only the end of official responsibilities, not his faith in justice, the Constitution, or the enduring values that sustain the legal system.