The city of Fresno threw Raj Singh Badhesha a going away party, filled with speeches, proclamations and food.

Badhesha (pronounced Buh-DAY-shaw), the chief assistant city attorney, starts as Fresno County Superior Court judge on July 15. Gov. Gavin Newsom appointed Badhesha in May, to replace the retired Jon Kapetan.

“I’d like to be the the kind of judge that people say is fair. So, I think that that will depend on the circumstances. But I’d like to be somebody that when a litigant leaves the courtroom, they say, I was heard,” Badhesha told GV Wire.

He becomes the first county judge of Sikh background, and the first turban-wearing judge in the state.

Currently undergoing judicial training and orientation, Badhesha will preside over criminal misdemeanors in Department 1.

He said his wife and kids are adjusting well.

“We’re just taking everything in stride. And then the schedule should not be much different than here. I’m hoping this isn’t very impactful,” Badhesha said.

A Celebration and Proclamation

All city councilmembers, Mayor Jerry Dyer, and City Attorney Andrew Janz had kind words for Badhesha in the chambers, proclaiming the day in his honor.

Badhesha is the voice of calm, Dyer said, in sometimes turbulent closed session meetings.

The chambers filled with City Hall, staff, especially from the City Attorney’s Office, family, and members of the Sikh community.

After the city council adjourned for lunch, the public enjoyed a reception, with catered Indian food, in the council lobby.