Choor Singh Sidhu (19 January 1911 – 31 March 2009), known professionally as Choor Singh, was a distinguished Singaporean lawyer, judge, philanthropist, and author. His remarkable journey from humble beginnings to becoming one of Singapore’s most respected Supreme Court judges is a story of perseverance, dedication, and an unwavering commitment to justice. Not only did he leave an indelible mark on Singapore’s legal landscape, but his contributions to society and Sikhism have inspired generations.
Born in Kotteh, Punjab, India, on 19 January 1911, Choor Singh Sidhu came from a family of modest means. At the tender age of four, he migrated to Singapore with his mother and sister to join his father, who worked as a night watchman by the Singapore River. Life was challenging, and young Choor faced numerous hardships, including walking five kilometers to school, sleeping along five-foot ways, and studying under street lamps.
Yet, these adversities only strengthened his resolve to pursue education and success. Choor Singh Sidhu attended Pearl’s Hill Primary School and Outram Road School, later excelling at Raffles Institution, where he completed his secondary education in the top class in 1929. Notably, he was classmates with David Marshall, Singapore’s first Chief Minister, marking the beginning of lifelong friendships and networks that would influence his career.
The Road to Law: Perseverance Amid Challenges
After finishing school, Choor Singh Sidhu faced the harsh realities of the Great Depression, leaving him unemployed between 1930 and 1934. However, his determination never wavered. He worked as a clerk at the law firm Mallal & Namazie before joining the Government Clerical Services at the Official Assignee’s office.
It was here that fate intervened. James Walter Davy Ambrose, the Assistant Official Assignee who would later become a High Court Judge, encouraged Choor Singh to pursue a career in law. Inspired by this mentorship, Choor began studying law books in his spare time, gradually nurturing his passion for justice and legal knowledge.
With perseverance and self-discipline, Choor Singh Sidhu enrolled as an external student at the University of London, passing the matriculation examination and the intermediate LL.B. examination. In 1948, he was appointed Coroner, and a year later, he became the first Indian Magistrate in colonial Malaya, breaking racial barriers and setting a precedent for future generations.
Climbing the Judicial Ladder: A Trailblazer in Law
Choor Singh’s legal career was characterized by integrity, fairness, and an unshakable commitment to justice. In 1955, he was called to the Bar at Gray’s Inn, becoming a Barrister-at-Law after completing his law studies on a government scholarship. His hard work and dedication led to his appointment as a District Judge in 1960, followed by his elevation to the Supreme Court of Singapore in 1963.
During his 17-year tenure as a Supreme Court judge, Choor Singh Sidhu gained a reputation for his criminal judgments. He was known as “The Hanging Judge” for his firm stance on capital punishment, including being the first judge to impose the death penalty on a woman in Singapore. Despite the controversies surrounding his decisions, Choor Singh remained resolute, believing that he was fulfilling his duty to uphold the law.
One of his most notable cases was the “Body in the Box” trial, which ultimately led to the abolition of jury trials in Singapore’s criminal justice system. Choor Singh’s transparency and commitment to justice were pivotal in shaping Singapore’s legal framework, earning him respect as a man of principle and integrity.
Champion of Community and Faith: Philanthropy and Sikhism
After retiring from the bench in 1980, Choor Singh Sidhu continued his journey of service and philanthropy. His deep-rooted values in Sikhism and his passion for education inspired him to give back to the community. He was a founding member of the Singapore Khalsa Association in 1931, later serving as its patron and honorary chairman.
Choor Singh’s commitment to Sikhism was evident through his writings, as he authored several books on the religion, sharing his knowledge and wisdom with future generations. In recognition of his contributions, the Sikh community honored him by inviting him to lay the foundation stone for the new Gurdwara Sahib building at the Gurdwara Khalsa Dharmak Sabha in 1994.
He also established the Justice Choor Singh Sidhu Gold Medal at the National Institute of Education, awarded to the best student teacher in education studies. Additionally, he donated to educational charities and cultural studies, leaving behind a legacy of generosity and commitment to learning.
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