Over 200 Kerala lawyers have opposed the Supreme Court’s ruling allowing judicial officers with seven years’ combined experience to be appointed as District Judges under the Bar quota. They claim the decision weakens the Bar’s exclusive constitutional right under Article 233(2).
The Kerala High Court Advocates’ Association (KHCAA) rejected Justice AK Jayasankaran Nambiar’s offer to discuss a Senior Advocate’s suspension, urging judges not to interfere in bar affairs. KHCAA also plans to write to the Chief Justice about adverse orders passed during their protest against court fee hikes.
Former Chief Justice DY Chandrachud highlighted the significance of fraternity as the essence of democracy at a Kochi lecture. He stressed its role in promoting love and human dignity, cautioning against existential threats like climate change. He also underscored India’s workforce potential while noting the concerning low female workforce participation.
Today, On 30th October, five new judges were sworn in at the Kerala High Court, reducing judicial vacancies to two. The court now has 45 judges out of 47 allotted. Chief Justice Nitin Jamdar administered the oath, and officials welcomed the appointees, emphasizing their contributions amidst criticisms of the Central government’s delays in approvals.
Kerala AG Gopalakrishna Kurup criticized the Central government for its persistent interference with the Supreme Court Collegium’s recommendations for judicial appointments, causing significant delays. He highlighted the specific case of Justice PP Krishna Kumar, whose elevation was stalled for nearly a year despite no objections to his integrity.
Former Supreme Court Justice KM Joseph emphasized that the Indian Constitution inherently embraces secular values, regardless of the explicit mention of ‘secularism’ in the preamble. He highlighted that the removal of the word “secular” would not diminish the equality guaranteed under relevant articles. Justice Joseph underlined the significance of secularism as a basic feature of the Constitution.