The Karnataka High Court expressed admiration on Monday (April 8th) for Advocate Sarah Sunny, a deaf lawyer who presented arguments in a case with the assistance of a sign language interpreter.
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The Karnataka High Court yesterday set a commendable precedent by warmly recognizing the efforts of Advocate Sarah Sunny, a deaf lawyer who adeptly made her case arguments utilizing a sign language interpreter.
This notable occasion marked a significant moment in the court’s proceedings on Monday, as Justice M Nagaprasanna took the time to acknowledge and commend Advocate Sunny for her exceptional ability to navigate the challenges posed by her hearing and speech impairments.
The court’s interim order reflected this sentiment, stating,
“Counsel for (respondent-wife), Sarah Sunny has made elaborate submissions, defeating the disability of being hearing and speech impaired through the sign language interpreter. Submissions made by Sarah Sunny needs to be appreciated and the appreciation is placed on record though the submissions is through the sign language interpreter.”
Such recognition not only highlights Advocate Sunny’s professional competence but also the judiciary’s inclusive approach to facilitating diverse legal practitioners.
In preparation for Advocate Sunny’s participation, the court had previously instructed its Registry and the Central government to ensure the presence of a sign language interpreter. The successful arrangement of this support was duly noted and praised by the court, which also directed that the interpreter be compensated for her services both for the current and future hearings of this case. This thoughtful consideration underscores the judiciary’s commitment to accessibility and inclusiveness within the legal process.
Advocate Sunny represented the estranged wife in a case challenging a Look Out Circular (LOC) issued amidst allegations of cruelty and dowry harassment. While her arguments were conveyed through sign language, they were effectively translated for the court’s understanding by the interpreter. The court expressed its intention to delve deeper into Advocate Sunny’s submissions in the next hearing scheduled for April 19, signaling a keen interest in giving her the opportunity to fully present her case.
Justice Nagaprasanna’s encouraging words,
“Let her get acquainted with the things. I will hear her elaborately on the next date,”
-reflect a supportive legal environment that values the contributions of all advocates, regardless of their physical abilities.
Additionally, the moment was recognized as historically significant by Additional Solicitor General (ASG) Aravind Kamat, who remarked on the pioneering nature of the hearing. He noted that this event marked the Karnataka High Court as the first to hear a hearing and speech-impaired advocate through a sign language interpreter, making it a landmark moment in the annals of the Indian judicial system.
This event not only celebrates Advocate Sarah Sunny’s professional achievements and determination but also heralds a progressive shift towards more inclusive legal practices, ensuring that the judiciary remains accessible and equitable for practitioners and litigants alike, regardless of their disabilities.
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